Disability charity Accuro's U19 Youth Club in Great Dunmow has been selected for the Tesco Stronger Starts Scheme.

Accuro Care Services is calling out for votes to get a share of the fund - with voting open in selected stores from Tuesday, October 1 until mid-January next year.

Stronger Starts provides grant awards of up to £1,500 for community projects, with a particular focus on children and young people.

Accuro is one of three groups on the shortlist in Great Dunmow, and the voting is taking place at Tesco Great Dunmow and Tesco Express in Takeley.

Customers will cast their vote using a blue token given to them at the check-out each time they shop.

The U19 Youth Club provides a fun, safe, inclusive environment for 11 to 19-year-olds with a disability in West Essex, so they can socialise, make and meet friends and gain in confidence and self-esteem.

One of the current members is 18-year-old Daniel, who has Down Syndrome, a heart defect and bi-lateral conductive hearing loss, and has been attending Accuro clubs since May 2022.

His father Adam said: "Accuro clubs give Daniel an opportunity to make friends outside of school, he enjoys the regular bi-weekly clubs and also looks forward to the holiday clubs that are offered.

"He is always happy when he comes back from clubs and really enjoys himself, he has become more independent and his confidence when meeting new people has increased."

When asked why Great Dunmow residents should vote for the project, Adam said: "Accuro’s U19 Youth Club is a great resource for young adults in the area with special needs.

"It provides a safe, supportive and welcoming environment for them to socialise, learn new skills and increase their confidence within the community.

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"It has a positive impact on families, benefitting the individuals and relieving pressure on their families.

"By voting for Accuro’s U19 Youth Club, the local community can demonstrate its commitment to inclusivity, accessibility and supporting the needs of young adults with special needs.

"This vote will ensure a brighter future for these young people and strengthen the community as a whole."