Ref. 30057-08SMASH, the Swindon Mentoring and Self Help group, which supports vulnerable young people, is in danger of folding if it doesn't secure funding soon.

Until recently, Smash had been funded by the European Social Fund, but the money dried up in October 2003.

The group has since been exploring other ways of staying afloat and has been reliant on companies such as Zurich and Nationwide for sponsorship.

This week Smash requested £78,000 from Swindon Council in the hope of continuing its services for another year. Now it is in danger of closing if funding isn't found soon.

Smash helps young people combat social exclusion and access mainstream services.

Earlier this week the group put out an appeal for volunteers through the Advertiser because it has a waiting list of vulnerable children in need of support.

Smash project manager Rebecca Rice says since the European Social Fund cash has come to an end the group has been in a difficult position.

At a Swindon Council cabinet meeting on Wednesday evening, councillors requested a report exploring the options available to them before making a decision on possible funding.

Ms Rice said: "I am very pleased that the council wants to explore other avenues of funding. I am hopeful that they will help us if they can.

"We are obviously looking at other means of funding and are determined to find the funding we need.

" I have a great belief in this project and there are lots of young people dependent on us."

Council leader Mike Bawden said: "We are not making any promises. I will ask directors of other departments within the council if they have money available within their budgets to allocate to Smash."

A decision will be announced at the next cabinet meeting on May 19.

But some cabinet members were not sympathetic to Smash's problems. There are concerns among councillors that, if they rescue Smash, countless other groups in a similar position will make requests.

Coun Jemima Milton (Con Wroughton and Chiseldon) said: "I know it's hard but if, every time there is a problem, each group comes forward looking for additional money, we will be left in a difficult position."

But Labour leader Kevin Small believes Smash should be considered an exception as it provides a good service to vulnerable children.

Emma-Kate Lidbury