A charity has described how working with the KM Group over the past year has helped to transform its public profile.

And now it is encouraging other good causes to follow in its footsteps by submitting KM charity of the year applications.

Mcch, which has offices in Dartford and Maidstone, provides services and support for people with learning disabilities, autism and mental health needs, and is currently the charity of the year for KentOnline, KMFM and KMTV.

The charity's marketing manager, Karen Mitchell, said: “Being charity of the year for kmfm, KMTV and KentOnline has been such a positive experience for mcch.

“It’s generated publicity, helped to spread the word and raised awareness of our work supporting people with learning disabilities, autism and mental health needs.

“We’ve had a number of features on the television, the radio and online, and it’s been fantastic the way that KM Group editorial staff are interested in so many different things – not just events and fundraising, but also mental health and human interest stories.

“That approach has really helped us to communicate what it is that makes mcch special. And not having a big team or a lot of resources to spare, means it can be hard to get stuff out there normally.

The deadline for charity of the year nominations for 2019 is October 27. You can submit entries here.

Mrs Mitchell added: “We would definitely encourage other good causes to apply to be KM Group charities of the year for 2019.

“The application process is such a simple and stress-free experience. It only takes an hour or so, and if you are successful you benefit for the whole year."

One charity will be selected for each newspaper in the KM Group’s portfolio and for its KentOnline website, KMTV and the kmfm radio station.

The chosen charities will receive 12 months of multimedia support, plus access to fundraising opportunities run by the KM Charity Team, including challenges such as the annual dragon boat race, colour run and abseil events.