A BOURNEMOUTH play association described as “the essence of the Big Society” is to keep its council funding for the next two years.

Fernheath Play Association in West Howe, which has been continually threatened with having its council grant removed, has been told it can rely on receiving £35,000 a year for the next two financial years.

But the council has warned it will have to find a way of becoming self-sufficient and has suggested it increases its fees and charges.

Fernheath currently offers activities seven days a week, including after-school clubs, organised trips and parent and toddler groups.

It is able to provide one-on-one care for disabled children, allowing their families to take a much-needed break, and is used by many children from underprivileged backgrounds.

Cllr Ted Taylor, who serves on Fernheath’s committee, said: “Fernheath has made a difference to the community since 1976. It is the essence of the Big Society.”

He said cutting Fernheath’s funding would go against the wishes of Prime Minister David Cameron, who has urged councils not to take the “easy route” of cutting money from voluntary bodies.

“Fernheath has prevented many children from going into care,” he said.

“Social services send young people to Fernheath because they can see the value of that organisation.”

Council leader Cllr Peter Charon said he recognised that providing a grant to Fernheath for the next two years could end up saving the council money if it saved any vulnerable children from ending up in care.

But he added: “It is incumbent on the organisation to do all it can to help itself.”