A Findon-based initiative helping prevent babies being abandoned in Belarus has been awarded £126,000.

The International Grants Committee of the National Lottery has agreed to fund the Leaves of Hope project.

The scheme is aimed at trying to prevent babies being left in maternity hospitals in the eastern European country.

A spokeswoman said 552 babies, many of whom had moderate disabilities, were abandoned in hospital last year and most were destined to spend the rest of their childhoods in orphanages.

Leaves of Hope chairwoman Margaret Bamford, from Findon, said: "The grant is wonderful news. We know that, given reassurance and lots of encouragement while still in hospital, most of the mums could care for their babies themselves and overcome the stigma that is attached to disability."

She said involving social workers in maternity hospitals to provide practical help when babies are born was crucial to solving the problem.

Mrs Bamford became involved with the project after visiting Belarus five years ago.

She was so moved by scenes in the country's orphanages she persuaded West Sussex County Council social services and the Government's Department of International Development to fund a project to develop fostering.

At the time, the concept of foster care was not well established in Belarus.

The £126,000 grant will fund two hospital-based workers and the development of support groups and respite care for families and foster carers.

To find out more about the project, log on to www.leaves-of-hope.co.uk or call Mrs Bamford on 07710 272445.