BOLTON MP Brian Iddon is calling on local secondary schools to take part in "Giving Nation", a national scheme encouraging 11 to 16-year-olds to give to charity.

The Bolton South-east MP said: "Our secondary school pupils already do a great deal to support good causes.

"'Giving Nation' is a chance to build on their efforts for the future. I want to see all our schools involved because it's good for them and it's good for the community."

"Giving Nation" has been developed by The Giving Campaign, a partnership between charities and Government to develop a stronger culture of giving. It has been designed to support the citizenship curriculum for 11-16 year olds and is endorsed by the Department for Education & Skills.

The project offers a free resource pack and CD-Rom for teachers, and a lively and fun website for pupils -- www.g-nation.co.uk. So far 1,500 schools have requested the packs.

The campaign is also hoping that schools will participate in a "Giving Week" or "G-Week" from June 23 to 27 to celebrate pupils' giving activities.

Schools can also enter a Giving Nation Award, with a chance to win £1,000 or a trip to Africa. Interested schools should call 020-7401-4070.

It aims to help young people understand the power of giving and the importance of charities in shaping a fair and inclusive world.