A YOUTH group which supports young people across Devon in a wide variety of initiatives is appealing to householders in West Devon to join a new and potentially vital initiative.

Devon Youth Association, in partnership with Devon Social Services, is running the scheme in an effort to ensure that young people leaving care have access to housing and on-going support.

The scheme will work with housing providers and residents across Devon to assist these teenagers to develop into well-adjusted adults.

The aim is to provide the youngsters with the stability they need at this critical age, allowing them to overcome past hurdles and move on to achieve new goals including further education and training.

All the young people taking part in the scheme will have an individual support worker, who will meet them regularly to set goals and work towards them.

Tim Tod, DYA chief executive, said: ?What we need now is local people, families, couples and single people from all walks of life who have a spare room in their homes, boats, farms or caravans ? and who can offer a few hours support each week to a young person.?

Clair Crippin, learning support worker, said: ?We have to date recruited approximately 50 supported hosts across Devon, but sadly, we are lacking interest from mid and West Devon districts.?

Clair said DYA has young people in West Devon waiting to take up placements in the borough and is keen to hear from anyone who can help.

An allowance is paid to those who become a host to a young person ? no experience is necessary and hosts can be employed or unemployed.

Training and 24-hour support is offered to those taking part in the scheme and respite and breaks will be available.

Anyone who feels they would like to become involved in this worthwhile scheme should call Mary Bridget, the Devon Youth Association housing manager, on 079701 84365.