Children's Society partnership offers youth work training

The plan includes 13 youth work courses and a £3,000 grant scheme for youth groups in London.

Six young people from the London boroughs of Hackney and Islington will sit on a youth adviser panel, which will allocate the grants of up to £500 and ensure the interests of young people are at the heart of the strategy's implementation.

Richard Chartres, Bishop of London, said: "These young ambassadors for the Church, and for London as a whole, represent a considerable source of hope for us all. It is only right that we invest properly in their future, providing whatever support they need."

Clair Cooke, programme manager at The Children's Society, said: "Making this youth strategy a reality will allow young people to take an active and positive role in their church and community."