A scheme aiming to safeguard the futures of local charities has been backed by MP for Poplar and Limehouse Jim Fitzpatrick.

National website localgiving.com has launched a “grow your tenner” campaign in the East End, under which it has promised to match pound for pound every donation up to �10 made to local charities.

Mr Fitzpatrick welcomed the pledge as a “helping hand” for charities hit by the economic slump.

He said: “This is a helping hand for East End charities who have seen a decrease in donations and an increase in demand for their services. Local residents can double their donations and help local charities on their doorstep with this website.

“A tenner can help towards bereavement counselling, support for young people at risk, counselling for victims of domestic abuse and many other local projects which are the backbone of our community. Helping these charities will help to ensure no one is left behind during this recession.