A COMMUNITY partnership in Bournemouth has been given almost £2 million of government cash.

Bournemouth 2026 – which has been set up to tackle health, antisocial behaviour, education and community cohesion – brings together more than 250 organisations in the area.

It has now been crowned one of the best of its kind in the country after achieving 83 per cent of its targets and been given a £1.91m reward grant as a result.

Sara Wraight, from Bournemouth 2026 delivery, said: “This is an incredible achievement which reflects the commitment, hard work and joined-up thinking of some of the conurbation’s most caring organisations.

“Through the partnership, experts in health, education, antisocial behaviour and business are working side-by-side with those from voluntary, community and faith organisations.

“Together we have made a huge difference to people’s lives. We’ve used resources more efficiently and, by taking a preventative approach, have stopped problems from escalating and have saved the town money. I would like to thank everyone who has contributed.

“This next government grant will be used wisely to enable projects which bring even more tangible improvements for the community.”

The organisation had to meet targets in areas such as reducing anti-social behaviour and arson, helping people heat their homes, reducing teen pregnancy, helping people into employment and training and reducing harm from alcohol.

Deputy mayor Cllr Barry Goldbart added: “Our Local Area Agreement delivery teams have shown great determination to achieve these challenging targets.

“Behind every success is an inspiring story of courage and resolve to try out new ways of doing things and forge new relationships.”