The Youth Advocacy Service, provided by Engage Youth Empowerment Services (EYES) and funded by Wolverhampton City Council, aims to empower young people to tackle any discrimination they experience.
It will provide information, advice and support to children and young people who are experiencing direct or indirect discrimination, harassment or victimisation as a result of a range of issues that fall within the Equality Act 2010, including age, sexual orientation, disability, race and religion.
The service will also provide support to the parents and guardians of children and young people who are experiencing difficulties at school, especially those at risk of being excluded, while a multilingual helpline operated by Stop Hate UK - 0800 138 1625 - will be available 24 hours a day to give advice and provide support to any young person affected by a hate crime - as a victim or witness - who either wants to report it or just want to talk with someone about it.
Simeon Greene, EYES co-ordinator, said: "Many people are unsure or unaware of what constitutes discrimination and of the protection that the law can provide.
"As a result many will live with anxiety, resentment, anger or fear which in turn can result in poor physical or emotional health.
"We will be working closely with a range of statutory and voluntary organisations to ensure that Youth Advocacy Service meets the needs of all young citizens in Wolverhampton."
Councillor Elias Mattu, Wolverhampton City Council's Cabinet Member for Leisure and Communities, said: "This service will provide vital help and advice to our city's young people who may otherwise feel they must suffer in silence.
"I'd urge anyone who feels they are affected by discrimination to contact the Youth Advocacy Service in confidence for support from experts who will be on their side and fighting their corner."
To contact the Youth Advocacy Service, please call 01902 426678, text 07415 128 617 or e-mail yas@eyes2success.org.
- released: Tuesday 20 August, 2013