The Grantham branch of the Samaritans has received a boost from the London North Eastern Railway.

The rail operator has announced the group is one of many organisations to benefit from its annual £500,000 Customer and Community Investment Fund (CCIF).

The fund aims to help customers and communities along the LNER route to undertake projects and initiatives that address local issues and deliver educational or environmental

benefits. With 2020 affected by Covid-19, LNER says mental health has been a particular focus for support this year. One organisation to benefit from the fund is Samaritans, which offers listening and support to people and communities in times of need. LNER has given the charity £65,000 to support 13 branches across the UK including Aberdeen, Lincoln, York, Grantham and London. A range of initiatives will include spreading awareness of its services amongst the agricultural community and providing support for the recruitment of additional Listening volunteers. Sonya Trivedy, Executive Director of Income at Samaritans, said: "This funding couldn't have come at a better time. With such an uncertain economic future and our branches unable to carry out their usual community fundraising activities due to social distance restrictions, this funding will be a lifeline to help keep these branches running and ensure we can respond to those who are struggling to cope at this difficult and challenging time." Rachael Wilson, Community Investment Manager at LNER, said: "2020 has seen incredible community spirit across the UK so as part of our commitment to being a responsible business, we're dedicated to playing our part by supporting communities along our route, especially as many charities and local organisations are experiencing such a challenging time. "LNER is incredibly proud to be supporting Samaritans and all of the other organisations and charities who we're working with as part of the Customer and Community Investment Fund. Each project delivers a vital service so with our help, we hope to enable them to have an even bigger impact in their local communities."