Children's minister Beverly Hughes has allocated £4.5 million to a programme which will bring together children from diverse backgrounds in an attempt to promote social cohesion.
It is hoped that youngsters on the programme will develop their social skills and better appreciate diversity in gender, race, class and religion.
Young people consulted in the formulation of the programme's structure have highlighted the impact of gang activity, local rivalries and developing a sense of self-worth as topics that require covering.
The scheme, which especially targets deprived areas, will begin in the autumn.
