A NEW helpline has been launched which could prove a lifeline for young people in west Wiltshire.

A free information and advice line has been launched by Wiltshire County Council's youth development service which will put young people in touch with a youth worker who can give them advice on anything from careers to their health.

Richard Martin, the youth development service area manager is co-ordinating the new 'On-line' advice line.

He said: "Young people need information and advice on all aspects of their daily lives. For example, how many hours they are allowed to work while at school, how old they have to be to learn to drive or where they can get health advice.

"This new service will mean that young people in the county can have access to free and confidential advice and information on the phone, text or internet. Calls will be treated with respect and kept in confidence, except where the caller may be in a dangerous or life-threatening situation."

The line is open seven days a week from 10am to 10pm. Call 0800 511 111, text 07786 511 111, or log on to www.q2a.co.uk. All calls are confidential.