A youth charity is appealing for help in raising £30,000 to avoid having to make cuts to its services.

Bosses at Just42, which is based in Woodbridge and runs 21 clubs for young people in rural Suffolk, have warned that the current economic situation has put a squeeze on donations. With more and more people also using its services the charity says the need for funds has never been greater.

Manager Caroline Rutherford said: “Our vision is to make a positive impact on the lives of young people and children in rural Suffolk.

“We develop relationships over a number of years through our various projects, increasing wellbeing, school attendance and therefore educational achievement.

“We build confidence, self-esteem, community spirit, reduce crime and anti-social behaviour, and improve employability. In this time of economic hardship these are even more important.”

Four of Just42’s clubs are run from a converted mini bus – ensuring its services are available in areas where there are no youth facilities at all. It also runs holiday clubs, sports sessions and a mentoring service for vulnerable children.

Woodbridge county councillor Caroline Page, who along with her friend Julia Hancock recently raised £2,500 for the charity, added: “Just42 embraces the most disadvantaged or excluded, giving support, advice and help to encourage young people to succeed and fulfil their potential.

“It is not only doing this work well and effectively, it is doing it on a shoestring.” Last year Just42 worked with 2,500 young people, at an average cost of £60 each. As well as 40 volunteers and eight trustees it has two full-time youth work managers and 13 part-time staff.

If you would like to help call 01394 380992, email caroline@just42.org.uk or visit www.just42.org.uk.