Two Powys organisations will share in a £1.5 million Welsh Government funding package aimed at tackling child poverty across Wales.

The funding supports 25 community-led projects through the Child Poverty Innovation and Supporting Communities Grant scheme. The scheme is designed to develop practical, community-focused solutions to help lift children and families out of poverty and improve their life chances.

Powys County Council is among the recipients, with a project aimed at better understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by rural communities across the county. Building on the work of the Powys Child Poverty Task Force, the council will focus on listening directly to families and communities affected by poverty and will develop both immediate and long-term solutions tailored to local need.

Also awarded funding is Mid & North Powys Mind, which will use the grant to support children, young people and their families across the north of the county. Their work will include services to reduce financial hardship, improve mental health and increase access to education and employment opportunities – all key steps towards breaking the cycle of poverty.

The Welsh Government says the grant programme is designed to strengthen collaboration between local services so that families can more easily access help. Across Wales, projects include everything from free arts workshops and youth-led research initiatives to food security schemes.

Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Jane Hutt, said: "Every child deserves the best start in life, and addressing child poverty remains our absolute priority. We're committed to breaking down the barriers poverty creates and expanding opportunities for our children.

"By investing directly in organisations who support families in poverty across Wales, we're ensuring this funding reaches those who need it most. We will continue to do everything in our power to prevent poverty and provide meaningful support to those facing the toughest challenges."