Millions to tackle poverty in Townhill, Penderry and Castle

DEPRIVED areas of Swansea are set be boosted by a multi-million investment to help tackle poverty.

The wards of Penderry and Townhill will share the cash along with part of Castle.

Swansea Council cabinet members approved the first report establishing Target Areas — new initiative which is part of the Labour administration's anti-poverty campaign.

Millions of pounds will be spent on upgrading homes, extra health and social services support for families in need and more focus on environmental improvements.

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It will address issues ranging from worklessness to health inequality and debt

Cabinet member for target areas Ryland Doyle said: "We know Swansea has some of the highest child poverty levels in Wales.

"And it is unacceptable that people are dying 13 years earlier in the east than the west (of Swansea). We need to address poverty and this report outlines that plan."

The report won praise from across the board at the cabinet meeting.

Member for opportunities for young people Mitchell Theaker said he was "really excited about he report".

Cabinet member for wellbeing Mark Child said Mr Doyle and the officers should be proud of the report.

However, he added: "We are not taking away from other parts of Swansea, there will be a concerted effort across the city to help the most deprived. But this is coming first."

Among the key initiatives included in the programme are detailed plans for housing improvements over the next two years worth £7.6 million in Penderry and £6.1 million in Townhill and Castle.

Services which support families will be enhanced and increasing financial support for services aimed at supporting children in their early years will be made available.

The council also wants to work to challenge payday loan companies and promote alternatives and create apprenticeships, engage excluded children and strengthen family support.

Council leader David Phillips added: "This is the first step in a very long- term project. Hopefully in time it will be rolled out across the city and county. This is about directing resources to tackle poverty and deprivation."