A NEW scheme to support children under 12 has been launched in Nottingham.

The project, which is part of the city's Early Intervention Programme, is aimed at young people who may be at risk of drug misuse.

The mentoring will be delivered by 360 city residents who will be given training. The project is funded by the Crime and Drugs Partnership and will be delivered by organisation Supporting Others Through Volunteer Action (SOVA).

Sophie Wilson, Director of Operations for the Midlands at SOVA, said: "This is hugely beneficial for the young people of Nottingham. We will be working with Nottingham Youth Offending Service and Local Authorities as well as schools to ensure the service is available to those who will benefit most."

Graham Allen, Nottingham North MP and Nottingham's national champion of the Early Intervention programme said: "By uniquely focussing on mentoring before young people become teenagers we will help produce great young citizens in Nottingham who in turn can go on to be wonderful parents in later life."

If you would like to become a mentor call SOVA on 0115 900 3168 or email sovanottingham@sova.org.uk.