YOUTH CRIME: Police informers to get phone top-ups

The initiative is part of the organisation's Dream On campaign, launched by pop star Darius, and is designed to encourage young people to provide anonymous criminal information to the police. New technology will enable call centre detectives to download top-up codes via the phone system if the caller has provided actionable information.

Stewart McCulloch, chairman of Crimestoppers Scotland, said: "We've had a couple of calls in opposition. But in terms of teaching young people to respond to bribery, the scheme is not unethical as it is up to young people to choose whether to make the call. The plan is to give them an opportunity to help reduce crime in their community."

The Dream On campaign also offers a writing competition for six to 18-year-olds in Scotland on the topic of hopes and aspirations, with winners published in a book. A mentoring scheme will also be set up.

Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.