A pilot project which supports transgender children and young people has been given a £130,000 boost.

The groundbreaking scheme, run by Brighton and Hove-based charity Allsorts will receive the money from Comic Relief and Children in Need over a three year period.

It will cover the cost of providing three workers who will provide support and help.

There will also be two support groups for under-16s and under-13s as well as one-to-one help.

Parents, carers, youth workers, teachers and support staff will also be able to access services as part of the project, one of only a few of its kind in the UK.

Project director Jess Wood said: “Trans children and young people are often bullied and isolated in school, college and at work.

“As a result, trans children and young people can face a tough journey to express their deeper identity.

“There is little understanding of what trans children and young people need and this project will not only help the children and young people involved and their families but also help to raise awareness throughout the city especially in our schools.”

Trans team leader Elliot Klimek said: “The new funding for the trans work is brilliant news.

“One of our primary aims is to reduce feelings of isolation for the trans and gender questioning young people because we are all too aware of the impact these feelings can have on their self-esteem and mental wellbeing.

“The young people we work with are creative and inspiring and with their input I hope that the project can be a catalyst for greater trans inclusivity in the wider community.”

For more details, go to www.allsortsyouth.org.uk or call 01273 721211.