A charity helping families in Glasgow will open a new centre after receiving a £500,000 donation.

Govan HELP will open a new centre in 2025 after receiving the donation from BAE Systems.

The charity, which was founded in 1996, will use the money to renovate a central Govan building into a hub for their services.

The centre will allow them to extend their reach and provide more assistance to the community.

Viv Sawers, chief executive of Govan HELP, said: "We are absolutely thrilled that BAE Systems has recognised our potential to make a real difference for families in Govan.

"This is the largest single investment we've ever received, and it's already enabling us to grow, with two new team members now on board.

"Our team is buzzing with energy, and we're so grateful for the backing of such a major local employer."

The building, which is set to be leased from Glasgow City Council for 40 years, was formerly used as an after-school care facility.

It is now set to undergo a major refurbishment.

Viv added: "While the donation from BAE Systems is a monumental boost, we'll be looking for additional support to ensure this centre becomes everything the community deserves."

In addition to the investment from BAE Systems, ARCO, which supplies PPE and safety equipment to BAE Systems, has donated a further £54,259.

Govan HELP offer family support, play therapy, adult counselling, and training and volunteering opportunities.

It also operates the Govan Pantry, a key resource for the community.

While the new centre will serve as the charity's new home, the Pantry will stay at the Pearce Institute.

Councillor Ricky Bell, deputy leader of Glasgow City Council and local councillor for the Govan ward, said: "Govan HELP is an outstanding organisation in my ward.

"They do fantastic work and this award will enable them to move to a new facility to continue to support some of the most vulnerable people in Govan.

"I am proud to support them whenever I can."

Simon Lister, managing director of BAE Systems Naval Ships, said: “Govan HELP is the heartbeat of the Govan Community and I have been hugely impressed by the energy and passion of the team, and their ambitions to provide more help to local families in Govan. 

"We are exceptionally proud to be part of the Govan community and to play a modest part in supporting Govan HELP establish this community hub which will serve families for years to come.”