Children in Need appeal for 2009

The campaign helps thousands of children each year

Hundreds of organisations are using grant money from Children in Need to help improve the lives of disadvantaged children and young people.

Despite the economic conditions, the 2008 Appeal raised a record breaking £37.8m which has helped more than 700 projects across the UK.

Here in Essex more than £672,000 has been awarded to nine separate projects in local grants.

This year, Friday, 20 November, marks the 30th BBC Children in Need Appeal.

For more information on how to be a part of Children In Need 2009 visit the official website.