A project which helps young people recover from experiences of violence has been given the green light to expand its services.

The Greater Manchester Navigator Project, which was a huge success after launching in May, helps those aged between 10 and 25 to deal with experiences of violence and provides them with access to support networks to prevent similar situations from occurring.

The project was initially rolled out in four hospitals across Greater Manchester, including Royal Bolton Hospital, and the team of Navigators have already received more than 125 since the launch up until September.

The huge success of the Navigator's programme has enabled the team to take on referrals from North West Ambulance Service (NWAS), as well as community referrals.

Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester, Bev Hughes, said: "Our team of Navigators have a huge amount of expertise in supporting and mentoring young people who have been victims of violence and making a difference to the outcomes for these individuals.

"The Navigator project is another example of how we are committed to reducing violence across the city-region.

"The expansion of referrals to NWAS, communities and individuals, will help change the lives of even more young people through this early support."

In some instances, NWAS may interact with young people who do not require or want hospital treatment, but may still need support.

This means that, where necessary, they can still be referred to the Navigators.

Young people can also be referred to the service by their local community, whether it be through a community group, their teacher, a youth worker, or a friend.

Individuals can also refer themselves for support through the programme.

The Navigator project, which has been commissioned by Greater Manchester’s Violence Reduction Unit, is not connected to the police force and is entirely independent and confidential.

No personal information is shared with the police, unless a young person gives their permission.

Under the programme, young people can gain access to support, regardless of whether they have reported an incident to the police.

The project has also been rolled out in in Salford Royal Hospital, Manchester Royal Infirmary and Manchester Royal Children’s Hospital.