Sports stars, musicians and media high-flyers are to help young people reach their potential through a £3 million mentoring programme.

Andy Burnham MP, Labour’s Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, announced the funding over the next three years to help young people in challenging circumstances.

The scheme will be run in conjunction with Youth Music, Media Trust, Sport England and the Youth Sport Trust.

Andy Burnham said: "Each and every young person should have the opportunity to fulfil their potential. Sadly, too many youngsters go off the rails for want of someone they can respect to steer them in the right direction.

"The Youth Mentoring Programme helps young people find a new passion to stimulate their interest and increase their self-confidence. With just a little encouragement and advice these people may well go on to be the broadcasters, sports stars and musicians of the future."

Each strand of the programme – media, music and sport – will receive £1 million over three years in order to run the mentoring scheme.