Lewisham youth are being offered a slice of £250,000 courtesy of the Jack Petchey Foundation designed to help develop potential within young people aged 11 to 25 and boost self-esteem.

The foundation has teamed up with Lewisham Cultural Services to find groups and organisations working with young people so they cam learn more about the difference the Jack Petchey Foundation can make to them.

Information sessions will be held tomorrow (August 31) at Lewisham Civic Centre in Catford between 1pm and 5pm.

According to the recent Sunday Times Rich List, Jack Petchey is among the country's top ten most generous givers to education and youth.

Businessman Mr Petchey started the foundation to help youngsters take advantage of opportunities and to play their part in society.

"Youth today get lots of bad press," he said. "I believe we all have a responsibility to give something back to society. I want to help make London a better place for youngsters and encourage them to achieve through their own efforts.

"Fantastic work is being done and youngsters are gaining through the experience - now that's good news."

Since it was established in 1999, the foundation has made £20 million available to youth groups, clubs, organisations and schools across London, particularly through the highly successful Achievement and Leaders Awards scheme.

Former EastEnders actress Patsy Palmer and Eastender Mr Petchey marked the foundation's move into Greenwich at a recent awards event in central London.

"The work being done by Jack Petchey for young people is fantastic," said Palmer. "Kids need to be encouraged to make the most of opportunities, I know I did.

"Jack's foundation is making a real difference to their confidence and their ability to help themselves."

Councillor Chris Best, Lewisham's cabinet member for community services, said: "The Petchey Foundation does great work with young people - helping them realise their full potential. I would urge every group working with young people in the borough to attend the seminars at the Civic Suite."

Awards officer Lee Thompson said: "Jack's vision is to help young people in London to make the most of themselves. The foundation is well established and we now want to support Lewisham youth and the good work that is being done.

"We want as many organisations as possible to register for the information sessions."

Contact Cultural Services on 020 8314 6076 and for further information visit the foundation's website