WORCESTERSHIRE children are being challenged to write down their ideas for making their area a better place to live on "prayer leaves" in the hope that civic leaders will help make their dreams come true.

Their leaves will be put on a "tree of life" during church services in a scheme piloted by the Children's Society and The Church of England.

The Bishop of Worcester, Peter Selby, said: "Leaves of Life aims to make these children's dreams a reality by creating a community where they can truly flourish.

"By joining forces with The Children's Society and the people of Worcester, we can make a real difference to their lives. A better world for children is a better world for us all."

The Rev James Stewart, of St Peter's Birchen Coppice Church, in the Oldington and Foley Park area of Kidderminster, said it would be a great way to build on work already being done within the community.

He said the church was in a deprived area where there was little for youngsters to do.

"This event is about raising awareness and recognising that we are all part of one community and that when we draw together we are stronger than when we are on our own," he said.

Bob Reitemeier, The Children's Society's chief executive said: "By seeing the world through a child's eyes, we are able to understand their hopes and fears. That's why we're asking communities across the country to join us to make our neighbourhoods a safer and happier place for all children."

Other churches taking part in the scheme include St Peter's Church in Droitwich, Abbots Morton Church in Evesham and St Anne's Church in Bewdley.

The scheme, which also asks children to celebrate the good things in the community, is also being piloted in Bath and Wells, Chelmsford, Southwell and Wakefield.

For more information contact The Children's Society's Supporter Action Line on 0845 300 1128.