A SCHEME aimed at steering young people away from crime has been extended to those at risk of offending or re-offending.

Sunderland's Volunteer Mentoring Project has proved successful since it was set up last year to help youngsters leaving care.

Now it is hoped by expanding the scheme it can guide others at risk of offending away from trouble.

A total of 40 volunteers, who act as role-models to children, have been matched with young people via the city's Youth Offending Service.

Speaking at Monday's launch, service head Helen Watson said: "Having someone to turn to for support and advice can make an enormous difference and we believe this project will be a real help to some of the youngsters we deal with."

The volunteers, who come from all walks of life, will spend time with the youngsters on a weekly basis and help them improve their self confidence.

One of the volunteers, know only as John, has been acting as mentor to Michael, a young offender.

John said: "I wanted to work with young people, as I had a hard time of it when I was younger.

"The project sounded like an excellent way for me to do this and a great opportunity for the young people involved."

Michael added: "I get to do activities I have never done before. I really like John, we have the same interests and it's a great way of making new friends."

The project is a partnership between Sunderland Social Services, the Youth Offending Service and the National Children's Bureau.

Anyone interested in training to be a mentor should tel 0191-553 7300