With Children in Need back this evening to raise money to support over 2,600 projects all over the UK, the Wimbledon Guardian takes a look at how Merton based charities have benefitted from the support the charity has provided.

Carers Support Merton, of Mitcham, received £115,125 from Children in Need to help the project which helps young carers by providing a range of support and skills, with the aim of decreasing alienation, isolation and pressure.

Tom Lambert, senior family support worker in the young carers team, said: “We were able to add to our existing group work and respite activities with more in-depth emotional support work for young carers under stress from their responsibilities.

“The young carers supported by the funding ranged from those who had a sibling with a learning disability to those with a terminally ill parent.

“The funding we received allowed many young carers in Merton find their voice and has left a lasting legacy within the service.”

Other charities to receive support include Merton Vision, who received £25,716, where money has gone towards supporting provision of monthly social events and activities for young people with a visual impairment.

Fran Hibbert, chief officer of Merton Vision, said: “We have been very fortunate to gain a grant support local blind or partially sighted children aged three to 11, some of whom have additional needs.

“The grant has made an enormous difference to these children.

“They have gained skills and confidence and are willing to try new things - particularly if they previously thought that their poor vision meant that they should not attempt some activities.

“They also make friends with other children with a visual impairment and these ‘peer’ friendships can often last a lifetime.”

Mitcham-based Merton Mencap received funding of £83,179 to provide weekly activities for children with learning disabilities including cooking, travelling and life skills work, as well as regular physical activities.

Andy Whittington, chief executive of Mencap, said: “Children in Need is funding Merton Mencap to provide a weekend club for young people with learning disabilities.

“The support and encouragement of BBC Children In Need has been vital in bringing such a club to people in Merton.”