Parents of pre-school children living in Vange are being invited to have their say as part of a project designed to help youngsters get the best start in life.

The New Generations project aims to understand the main challenges being faced by young families and what services and resources are available for them.

Working with Essex County Council, Basildon Council has been awarded grant funding by the Department for Communities and Local Government for the project.

An independent research group, TONIC, will be undertaking surveys, interviews and holding focus groups with families and stakeholders in Vange on behalf of the two councils.

There are lots of different ways you can have your say.

An online survey is available at bit.do/vange1, and you can be entered into a prize draw to win £200 in Mothercare of High Street vouchers. The survey closes on March 12.

You can also take part in a 20 minute confidential telephone interview, and will be sent a £15 high street voucher. Email engage@tonic.org.uk with the heading Vange, or text Vange to 07507 330 990.