A CHARITY has been handed a financial lifeline after its future looked in doubt.

Southend Mencap has been given a £14,048 Big Society grant from the Government, dispelling fears a cash crisis might force it to fold.

The money has come from a £3.6million Government fund set up to support charities facing hard times in the recession.

The charity runs a range of projects for the learning disabled, including a music school, friendship group, drama group and a sports club.

Marc McOwens, the group’s general manager, said: “We are thrilled and rather relieved.

“In the current economic climate, securing funding to maintain our service provision has been even more vital as it ensures our beneficiaries have the best possible chances in their lives.

“It will ensure the continuation of our advocacy and family support services, which are lifelines to our learning disabled friends and their families.”

The charity, based in London Road, Southend, has been helping children and adults with learning disabilities since 1955.

The Government fund which is helping was set up as part of its Big Society initiative.

Health Secretary Andrew Lansley said: “I’m pleased that we’re able to give this money to help so many organisations keep providing valuable support and services for thousands of people.

“Charities play an important role in our vision for the Big Society and it is right, in difficult economic circumstances, we should give short-term support.”

Care services minister Paul Burstow added: “By providing money to organisations already working closely with their local community on a daily basis we’re helping to provide services shaped around individual needs.”