BBC Children in Need provides grants to projects in the UK which focus on children and young people who are disadvantaged. It is local to people in all corners of the UK and supports small and large organisations which empower children and extend their life choices.

The grant programmes are open all year round for applications, with a focus on allocating the money to deserving projects 4 times a year. To find out more about grant programmes, to apply for a grant or to hear how some children's lives have been changed for the better, visit 'Change Lives'

Every penny from the money you raise or donate will go towards helping disadvantaged children and young people right here in the UK. Children in Need is able to make this promise because it uses investment income and Gift Aid to cover all running costs, meaning that you can be sure your money makes a real difference.

"So far you have helped to raise over £600 million and you never cease to amaze us with your fabulous fundraising events and generous donations. However, there are still so many children that need your help. This year's Appeal promises to be bigger and better than ever before so make sure you get involved and help us to make a difference to children who need our help the most, especially in such tough economic times."

I'd say the tweed jacket or the bow-tie are the most iconic - although the boots are my personal favourite. I hope people donate generously for BBC Children in Need because it's a wonderful cause - and we've got to beat last year's total.

... Newsreaders Fiona Bruce, Emily Maitlis, Sophie Raworth and Sian Williams try their hand at ballroom and face Len Goodman, Bruno Tonioli, Craig Revel Horwood and Alesha Dixon with their own Strictly Challenge. Nick Knowles is in the studio for DIY SOS – The Big Build to celebrate their biggest makeover to date, and there's an exclusive sneak peek at the Doctor Who Christmas special.

Scores of fans can sign up to host a Doctor Who themed party in their own home when the new initiative put together by marketing company Come Round launches this week. For aspiring young Doctors, Amys and Rorys these official party packages will the perfect way to celebrate their love of the show.

The first 400 to sign-up will receive an exclusive party pack containing official Doctor Who merchandise, tailored game suggestions, posters and more – the perfect kit to host the perfect party.

Furthermore, all the first 400 will be given exclusive access to stream special never-seen-before DVD extras before the DVD becomes available to the British public. The four Monster File previews are 10 to 15 minutes each and will be part of the exclusive pack given to the winners to share with guests of their party.

Launched just before the much anticipated boxset hits the shops, the first-ever official Doctor Who parties will take place on the 19th and 20th November 2011. For those not lucky enough to get a hosting pack, special ‘print at home’ kits will be available so anyone can don a bow tie or a River Song mask to join in the fun in their own home.