COUNCILS in Dorset have been given an extra £2 million to help vulnerable families get through the winter.

The cash is part of a £15.2 million funding boost for the South West region.

The government’s Covid Winter Grant Scheme will see councils across England share £170million in additional, ring-fenced funding to help vulnerable families and individuals.

The aim is to prevent children from going hungry this winter and ensure families get the help they need.

Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey said: "We want to make sure vulnerable people are cared for throughout this difficult time and, above all, no one should go hungry or be unable to pay their bills this winter.

"We know this has been a challenging time for many and we have consistently supported the lowest-paid families, protecting nine million jobs with furlough and boosting welfare support by £9.3billion.

"This package builds on that support by extending our successful Holiday Activities and Food programme as well as funding a £170million Covid Winter Grant Scheme to ensure families get the help they need."