RADIO Borders has launched its Cash for Kids Appeal, asking people to help families in the Borders and Northumberland who are facing difficulties due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Listeners are invited to make donations set to be built into a grant fund which families can access to help cover basic food and heating.

Sally Aitchison MBE, managing director of Cash for Kids, said: "We have all been affected by the COVID-19 situation in some way, however right now those on low incomes or who are living in or on the brink of poverty will be really feeling the pressure.

"With already four million children living in poverty in the UK, the impact of the current situation is sure to see that number increase. We want to do what we can to support these families. We are uniquely place in our communities to identify the families."

The grant fund will support the most vulnerable in the community, including people working zero-hours contracts, reduced hours, or those who have no access to sick pay.

Donated funds will also help children and young people who accessed free school meals before schools closed last week - this will operate alongside the government's voucher scheme.

Teachers, social workers, and charity groups can also apply to the fund on behalf of people they support.

Keith Clarkson from Radio Borders added: "We have already been hearing incredible stories of generosity from our listeners, as individuals go out of their way to help others through this unprecedented situation.

"In donating to the Cash For Kids Appeal, you’ll be making a small act of kindness that can make a huge difference to families in need here in the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland."

Donation to the Cash for Kids Appeal can be made by texting 70905 or by visiting radioborders.com/cashforkids/

Every penny goes towards families and children in need.