First published in BBC News on Monday May 6 2024.

A "life-changing" mentoring scheme is to begin in the Western Isles offering opportunities to disadvantaged pupils.

The programme is due to start in August at the Nicolson Institute in Stornoway, and has been brought together by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and the charity MCR Pathways.

The scheme aims to help 180 pupils, including those who are care-experienced, to build their aspirations and fulfil their potential.

MCR Pathways said it was currently supporting more than 6,000 pupils across Scotland and the south-east of England, with the ambition of reaching every young person who needed support.

The charity said a full-time member of staff was employed within each school, assisted by volunteer mentors from across the community.