PSYCHOLOGY students in Worcester have become mentors to young people with mental health problems.

Almost 100 of University of Worcester's students will now offer online support to those who need guidance aged between 11 and 17 thanks to mental health charity MindFull.

Ben Gibbons, chair of the university's student psychology society, organised the training for the newly qualified LifeMentors.

He said: "I organised the session after hearing about MindFull a few months ago – I thought it was a fantastic service in the mental health field, and the service that they offer to young people in terms of support and by taking steps to reduce the stigma of mental illness is fantastic.

"This was the largest cohort of trainees that MindFull have trained to date and a great opportunity for those pursuing a career in professional psychology or related areas to gain valuable experience, and I am grateful to Mindfull and to members of staff in the Psychology department for their support.”

The students who took part in the interactive training are now being encouraged to use their training to develop their skills and knowledge alongside their studies.

Dr Helen Scott, programme lead in psychology at the university, said: “The charity provides an early intervention, supporting young people with potential mental health issues. As such, it is an excellent development opportunity for our Psychology students as well as a very worthwhile use of their time and skills.”

Stephen Hill, head of Social Action at MindFull, said the trained students will now join the MindFull website to offer their expertise.

He said: “It’s fantastic that the students from the University of Worcester are volunteering to provide support and guidance to young people struggling with their mental health and emotional wellbeing.

"We look forward to welcoming the new MindFull mentors from Worcester to our site."