The fund, which is worth £60m this year and £60m next year, was introduced to support vital children's services while providers identify alternative finance.

This could include the new early intervention grant being handed to local authorities, services commissioned by schools, the National Citizen Service and the Big Society Bank.

The grant has been allocated according to services offered under the specific grant themes of families and relationship support, early years and childcare, child protection and safeguarding, young people, children in care, special educational needs and disability.

Children’s minister Tim Loughton said the voluntary and community sector is central to the government’s commitment to build a big society. "This is a significant investment in a tough financial climate, and is only one aspect of the funding we will route through the voluntary and community sector," he said.

"The voluntary sector plays, and will continue to play, a significant role in reforming services for children, young people and families.

"I hope this grant further inspires a responsive and determined sector to do even more to improve outcomes for children, young people, parents and families."

Source: Children & Young People Now