Befriending scheme starts

A SCHEME has been launched in Edinburgh to highlight the benefits of mentoring and befriending.

The Supporting Life's Journeys project wants to encourage more people to help vulnerable members of society by offering friendship, company and advice.

Housing and Communities Minister Alex Neil said: "Befriending and mentoring plays a key role in helping us provide support to vulnerable members of society.

"Spending time with others who may be feeling alone is one of the best things we can do."