A CHARITY that works to create life-enhancing opportunities for young people and adults has been given the royal seal of approval.

The Princess Royal has become patron of YSS (Youth Support Services) which provides a one-to-one mentoring programme for young people who are at risk of becoming involved in anti-social or criminal behaviour.

The charity, based in Ryelands Lane, Elmley Lovett, near Droitwich, also supports young people who find themselves caring for an adult member of their family.

YSS said it believed Princess Anne’s appointment would raise its profile and help it in its effort to continue to work with children, young people, young adults and families at risk of social exclusion.

Chair of the YSS board of trustees Susanna McFarlane said the royal seal of approval was also a boost for its partner organisations.

“At YSS we run some projects ourselves and others in partnership with a number of different agencies,” she said. “We are all delighted that the Princess Royal recognises the positive work that we do across the Midlands to help young people take their rightful place in society.”

Chief executive Rob Smith said: “Since YSS began 23 years ago we have worked with thousands of young people and adult offenders and it is very gratifying to have our efforts appreciated at a royal level. We have a number of exciting new projects in the pipeline and we are looking forward to sharing their progress with the Princess Royal.”

The YSS currently helps more than 2,000 young people and adults every year across the Midlands and is supported by 300 volunteers. For more information, visit yss.org.uk