CSV has launched a new volunteering pilot matching older people with troubled teenagers aged 14-19.

The new project, called ‘Grandmentors’ was set up after Lord Freud approached CSV to create a scheme which matched older volunteers with young people in order to discover whether the traditional grandparenting role is an effective basis for mentoring young people.

The launch of the project at the House of Lords this week was attended by Iain Duncan Smith, the new secretary of state for work and pensions.

Smith said: "It's clear that older people have an important role to play in building a Big Society, forging closer intergenerational links and strengthening communities.

"I look forward to seeing the Grandmentors programme in action and hope that it will encourage key values such as respect, responsibility and civic awareness that are essential to tackle social breakdown and help young people take control of their lives and make the right choices for themselves and their families."

There are 60 matches planned with ‘Grandmentors’ by 2013 and, if successful, this pilot will lead to nationwide expansion.  The aim is to reduce the numbers of young people not in employment, training or education by taking all appropriate steps to support the participants.

The project will be evaluated by an independent research team from Manchester Metropolitan University, led by Professor Chris Fox.