NEW advisors are set to be on hand to support students with mental health difficulties in Blackburn with Darwen.

Health chiefs have secured funding from a new NHS programme, called Trailblazer, to establish two new teams for borough educational establishments.

One-to-one assistance and group therapy will be available to those suffering with mild to moderate mental health issues, as the teams work across local schools and colleges.

Dr Penny Morris, NHS Blackburn with Darwen medical director, said: "We are absolutely delighted to have been successful in our bid for trailblazer funding to support young people suffering with poor mental health within Blackburn with Darwen.

"Offering more support to young people in schools at a much earlier stage, will help them to achieve the best educational outcomes and reduce the chance of them developing more serious mental health issues in later in life."

Staff will also be able to liaise with specialist services, so young people can secure the help and support they require to remain in full-time education.

The new Trailblazer scheme has £9.3m of government backing.