THREE Ross-on-Wye based organisations have been awarded funding that benefits the county’s support for young people.

Herefordshire Children’s Services and West Mercia’s Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion have jointly funded a range of community organisations from across the county to support projects that provide young people with things to do and places to go in their local communities.

The successful grant applicants were Table Tennis Together (RDCA) based at the Larruperz Community Centre; the Basement Youth Club in Hill Street and Halo Leisure, which runs Ross Swimming Pool, with the grant helping support memberships.

The grants support new and existing not for profit organisations to deliver early intervention and prevention projects that reduce hate crime, antisocial behaviour, substance abuse and vulnerability to exploitation, with a strong focus on children and young people aged 11–18, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.

Anne Richards from the Basement Youth Trust, Youth Club said: The Safer Communities funding is really helpful to us as a Trust as we have a number of running costs for the youth club.

“Importantly, the grant will allow us to employ an administrator to help with the day-to-day tasks. This extra support will mean that our executive committee members will be able to work more efficiently and strategically which will ensure the long-term future of our youth club in the town.”

Table Tennis Together is an intergenerational play programme designed to bring together young people and older adults through the fun, accessible, and sociable game of table tennis. The project aims to foster positive relationships, social inclusion, and mutual understanding across generations by creating regular shared sessions where participants can learn, play, and connect.

Halo Leisure is a registered charity and social enterprise operating community-focused leisure facilities like Ross Swimming Pool, with the grant enabling financial support for its memberships.

By engaging both young people and the elderly, the Table Tennis Together creates opportunities for meaningful intergenerational exchange. Young participants will benefit from learning patience, empathy, and respect for older generations, while older adults will gain renewed confidence, social connection, and a sense of purpose through interaction with youth.

Tina Russell, Herefordshire Council’s corporate director for children and young people, said: “We are really pleased to champion local organisations who understand the challenges facing young people in our county. By supporting their experience and passion to make a difference to the lives of young people means as a partnership, we are investing in early intervention, prevention and long-term positive change, helping to make Herefordshire a safer place for everyone.”

Cllr Ivan Powell, cabinet member for children and young people, added: “Hearing about the positive work of the grant recipients to protect and support children and young people has been a really uplifting experience.”

Commissioner John Campion said: “I’m proud to be working in partnership with Herefordshire Council to jointly fund these projects. The organisations are deeply rooted in Herefordshire’s communities. Their work shows how local action, delivered by people who understand local needs, can change outcomes for young people and contribute to safer, more resilient communities.”