WHITE and working-class communities in Stoke-on-Trent will receive Government cash to help them cope with changing times and the recession.

The Government fears "traditional" English communities feel ignored by society and excluded from politics.

The decline of industries such as pottery has increased unemployment, while immigration has changed many communities and led to extra competition for jobs and housing.

At the same time, academics say the close-knit family structures of the 1950s have gone.

It is a background which, academics believe, has led to a rise in "extremist" political views and parties like the BNP, which holds nine seats on Stoke-on-Trent City Council.

Now, the Government has set aside £12 million to re-engage with these communities, as well as providing help to relieve those pressures.

Of that cash, £100,000 has been earmarked for Stoke-on-Trent, which will be split between Burslem, Shelton and Blurton.

The council says the cash will be used to create inter-generational and inter-faith talking shops, to find out what people are concerned about and how to help.

Bill Harvey, chairman of Newstead Community Association, Blurton, said: "What use is talking? We need positive action.

"Traditional industries have gone and we need to be thinking about alternative jobs and training."

Vic Rawlinson, Upper Shelton Residents' Association chairman, pictured below left, said: "We have a mixed community and all have different needs.

"The biggest problem we have is unemployment. Anything the Government can do to bring that down would be fantastic."

Arthur Bourne, of Hamil Road, Burslem, said: "There aren't the same close family structures there used to be and I'd like to see more done to support families."

John Denham, Communities Secretary, launching the initiative, said: "Practical actions will focus on developing an insight into what is happening and introduce changes that will address people's concerns, reconnect them with jobs and tackle the sense of unfairness some people are feeling."

Alan Turley, council head of sustainable community development, said: "The funding will give us a chance to open discussions with groups of people across the city, including both young and older people and inter-faith groups.

"In addressing the Burslem, Shelton and Blurton areas, we will be able to find out exactly what their influences and concerns within their communities are.

"We welcome the £100,000 we will receive for the project and are pleased with any type of specialised funding to help us better communicate with all parts of the city."