A new character-building resource designed by Youth for Christ has become a big hit in youth prisons.

'Mettle', aimed at 14-18s, helps teenagers develop courage, spirit and character. Three young offenders' institutions in the north of England have introduced the course that helps people 'make informed choices for their lives, which are based on biblical principles and thinking'.

After a well-publicised wave of offenders completed Alpha and Youth Alpha courses, YFC is encouraged by Mettle's effectiveness as a follow up discipleship tool.

'Mettle provides a great opportunity to build on Alpha, and these young people can grow in their understanding of the Christian faith by still meeting together as a group and using the Mettle material,' says Geoff Baxter, YFC's Prison Co-ordinator.

The pack looks at the basics of Christianity, focuses on key issues facing young people, and incorporates fun ideas for the group. However, leaders have identified the key to the success of the course: the volunteers who write to the inmates.

Once on the Mettle course, each young offender is linked with someone outside the prison who writes once a month, using the Mettle Bible study notes as a guide.

Geoff Baxter is convinced that contact with the outside world is a significant motivating factor for the teenagers: 'the encouragement, personal insight and help of another young person is a powerful thing to receive, especially as a letter.'

Mettle Intro Packs are available for £12 by emailing mettle@yfc.co.uk or calling 0121 550 8055.