The Aston Villa Foundation is launching a project aimed at helping to mentor young people who are either at risk of entering the criminal justice system or are in the process of exiting the system.

In partnership with a number of local organisations, the Foundation will launch the Villa Intervention Programme (VIP) early in 2020.

The project is funded by the Premier League Charitable Fund and will offer one-to-one support with a Foundation staff member for young people aged 11 to 18, with the aim of helping them re-engage in education and society.

In addition to this support, there will be group sessions where young people can come together, meet their peers, share experiences and challenges as well as participate in group activities and training.

As part of the group work, a social action offer will be developed, to help the participants understand the needs of their communities and what effects their actions have on it and those within it.

Foundation and Community Manager Ross Alexander told the club’s official website: “We’re in a position where we have the knowledge, skills and partners to make the Villa Intervention Project a success.

“Young people are facing an increasing number of barriers to education, and we can help to remove some of those.

“We’re hopeful that this programme will make a positive impact on the lives of participants.”

The Foundation will deliver VIP alongside partners The Children’s Trust, Birmingham SEMH Pathfinder and Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Foundation Trust.

Pic credit: Aston Villa Foundation.