A charity dedicated to preventing homelessness among young people has been awarded a £338,000 cash boost.

The Herts Young Homeless Group, which engages with troubled teens and their parents, has been awarded the cash by the Big Lottery Fund.

The organisation, which has an office in Watford High Street, will use the money to fund its mediation service.

Holly Chilton, under 16s mediation service co-ordinator, said: “During these challenging economic times, with cuts to public spending, there are enormous pressures on families which can often lead to family breakdown.

“The causes of conflict are complex and varied and we help families to resolve disputes about schoolwork, boundaries at home and changes in family structure to name but a few.”

“This vital funding means that we can continue and develop our successful service, enabling us to reach even more communities and families than ever. On behalf of Herts Young Homeless Group, and the many families we will be able to support over the coming years, a big thank you to the Big Lottery Fund.”