A new project is aiming to boost the access of groups who are traditionally less likely to be engaged with parliamentary politics in Scotland.

The Scottish Parliament Community Partnerships Project will work with three different partner groups, facilitating contact with parliamentary staff and working on how to put issues important to them before the Parliament.

Access for blind and partially sighted young people in Scotland will be supported by Haggeye, while Action for Children (previously known as NCH Scotland) will work with difficult to reach young people, particularly in Dundee. Multi-Ethnic Aberdeen Ltd (MeAL) will work to engage black and ethnic minority young people with their Parliament.

"Our existing programme of educational activities and events both within and outwith Holyrood has been very successful in reaching a wide variety of groups and individuals the length and breadth of Scotland," said Presiding Officer Alex Fergusson.

"However, as we approach our tenth anniversary, it is important we continue to engage with new audiences and this exciting project offers just such an opportunity.

"No matter what anyone's background or circumstances, their voice is important to the Scottish Parliament. We hope to show the very practical difference people can make to how their Parliament can improve life in Scotland," he added.

The project will begin with meetings between partner groups and parliamentary staff, which will develop into groups working with their members on issues they want to raise with politicians, before being helped to publicise and promote these to the Scottish Parliament.