A COUNTY-based charity that helps support young people whose personal problems are affecting their education is appealing for more volunteers to work with pupils in Worcester.

Mentor Link was set up in 2002 and now has 65 volunteers working with students in six schools - five in Wyre Forest, and Elgar Technology College, Worcester.

Mentor Link chief executive Andrea Maddocks said there are currently 12 volunteer mentors providing support to pupils at Elgar Technology College but she wants to boost the numbers to 20.

"We are looking for people who are good listeners, who like young people and who want to come and make a difference," she said. "The mentors try to make out what is going on in the pupils' lives and why they are not achieving their full potential.

"It could be because of family breakdown, illness or something such as bullying.

"The mentors offer informal support and try to help the kids feel better about themselves. Nine times out of 10, it is what is going on at home that affects them."

Mrs Maddocks said volunteers came from all sorts of backgrounds.

"We have people from the chamber of commerce, insurance, nurses and someone who has a civilian job in the police force," she said.

Volunteers usually work in the areas close to where they live and once they have been interviewed and received enhanced criminal records clearance, they get initial and continuing training.

Mrs Maddocks said the increase in family breakdowns and trouble at home was partly responsible for the extra demand for mentors.

"There are a phenomenal number of children affected by family breakdown now. We need a team of about 20 people in each school so there are not any waiting lists for the pupils."

She said young people with problems that affect their education are very keen to try out the mentoring to see if it can help them.

Anyone interested in finding out more or becoming a mentor at Elgar or any of the schools can go to the website www.mentorlink.org.uk or call Mrs Maddocks for a chat on 01299 400616.