HAMPSHIRE organisations and schools are to benefit from multi-million-pound funding.

The Big Lottery Fund has awarded more than £2 million to 106 projects in the South East.

Money will be used to support a range of projects to enable people to improve their skills, meet new people and strengthen their communities.

Overall, eight institutions based in Southampton and the surrounding area will benefit from the funding including four local schools which will use the money to provide students with new facilities.

The Southern Domestic Abuse Service (SDAS) instead, will use the £500 won to support those affected by domestic abuse in Fareham, Gosport, Havant and Portsmouth.

A spokesperson from SDAS said: “SDAS is committed to protecting victims of domestic abuse. This funding will support our ambition to improve and expand local services.

“Last year in Fareham we received requests to work with 426 families affected by domestic abuse. We are delighted to receive this funding.”

The Stoke Park Junior school in Eastleigh has also received £10,000 to purchase and install a wooden activity frame in the playground – as well as the required safety surfacing – to boost physical activity amongst children.

Meanwhile the Ampfield Church of England primary school based near Romsey will use £10,000 to provide pupils with outdoor play equipment.

Winners have been chosen after examining projects and their outcomes in terms of support for people and communities.

James Harcourt, director of responsive programmes at the Big Lottery Fund, said: “It’s great to see so many projects up and down the country bringing a positive change to their communities.

“Thanks to National Lottery players, the funding will support people to overcome barriers, learn new skills and improve their lives for the future.”

The National Lottery offers different programmes.

Those who would like to apply for funding and find out more about the several options can visit www.biglotteryfund.org.uk or call the Big Advice Line on 0345 410 2030.