An initiative to train people up in helping teenagers at risk has been inundated with interest.

Demand for places on the Government's Mirrors programme has proved so popular, organisers have had to increase capacity by 25 percent.

Mirrors was launched last month by Social Rehabilitation Minister Dale Butler. Youth professionals in both the public and private sector were encouraged to join the intervention programme which addresses the challenges faced by those aged 15-18 considered 'at risk'.

This could be exposure to drug use, violence, academic failure or lack of family support.

The Youth Professionals Training Sessions start on Wednesday at the Elbow Beach Hotel. However, due to demand, places have increased from 90 to 120.

A Government spokesman said: "There has been a highly positive response."

The three day sessions will continue into next month and are designed to prepare prospective youth professionals for ongoing participation in the Mirrors scheme.

The next phase of the programme will be an appeal for volunteers to help during the residential part of the project, in the Fall.

The spokesman said: "We are looking for volunteers who have an interest in making a difference in the lives of at risk young people between the ages of 15 and 18."

Volunteers will work as part of a team to provide coaching, enrolment, residential and administrative support to the youth professionals.

Mark Charley of consulting company Uncommon Results Inc will direct the residential part of the programme.

Uncommon Results provides training in personal and organisational development and has been instrumental in the development of intervention for high risk youth in the UK.

Mr Butler said: "The needs of our young people cannot fully be addressed by government alone. Youth professionals, families, faith based organisations, businesses and other community groups all have a role to play in reaching our youth at risk.

"Mirrors provides the opportunity for all of us to work together towards this common goal."

Anyone interested in volunteering for the programme should contact 278-4904.