A GROUP of local children have come up with a novel way to send out advice and support for youngsters in need: via text-messages.

A Waltham Forest youth group is taking advantage of the new craze for 'texting' by setting up a service where youngsters can get help and advice with their mobile phones.

The idea is the brainchild of the Uth Group made up of kids who have used the Face2Face programme, which provides information, counselling and sexual health advice for local people in the area between the ages of 11 and 21.

The Uth group is now recruiting people to help run the text message service, the first of its kind.

Those selected to help run the scheme will receive six weeks training in the summer to equip them to deal with issues ranging from relationship problems, bullying, drug and alcohol abuse to depression.

Jo Seward, from F2F, said: "This is a cutting-edge initiative, inspired by young people who have used the Face2Face service.

"The Uth group feels it is important that young people can have someone other than a friend, parent or teacher to talk to.

"Young people like talking to others in their age group because they feel they are on the same wavelength, but this initiative is also about empowering those in the Uth Group to provide the service, build on their strengths and resources and value their contributions."

Anyone wanting more information on the Uth Group or texting service can ring Jo on 8509 1210.

July 8, 2002 17:30