It brings both pilot areas into line with the others on Borders and Lanarkshire which undertook the extension in May.

DBI currently provides support to people aged 18 and over who present to emergency services and primary care in distress or emotional pain.

It means the project which has helped over 3,000 people 18 and over since it launched two years ago, will make the connected, compassionate support DBI provides, available to 16 and 17-year-olds in these areas.

Welcoming the extension in Aberdeen, Penumbra chief executive Nigel Henderson said:

“Early intervention like this is such an important part of how we support mental and emotional health and DBI is all about equipping people with the skills and support to manage their own mental health and wellbeing and to prevent future crisis.

“I’m delighted this support has now be extended to 16 and 17-year-olds.”