Young Scot Extra targets young people who are making the transition to independent living (i.e those that have left school, looking for employment, moving on to college or university, etc) and concentrates on providing them with all the information and support they need to make the most of their lives.

Due to the recent economic climate, more young people than usual stayed in school last year, which means that this summer at least 3,000 more than usual will be leaving school or college, searching for jobs and other positive opportunities. Young Scot Extra is a specially tailored service which combines online and offline info services and support for all young Scots as they move into adulthood.

The new digital platform at www.youngscotextra.org is the place to go to help them make the transition to independent living and includes information on travel and career opportunities, further education information, tips on managing money, bank accounts and insurance as well as podcasts, videos and lots more.

The site also includes a special "Pathways To Music" service which is full of information for young people who want to get involved in music industry careers.

To represent the range of services available through Young Scot Extra, an Abbey Road themed launch featured four young Scots stepping out in their own chosen career path, life opportunity or adventure.

Louise Macdonald, CEO of Young Scot, said: "It's an unfortunate fact that some young people leaving school this summer are facing a tough economic climate. Many young people will need extra support when it comes to making informed decisions around their future so we're thrilled to be able to launch Young Scot Extra.

"Everything about the service, including the name, brand, content and design of the digital platform, has been created in partnership with young people, especially those furthest away from the job market, through consultation and testing."

Keith Brown, Minister for Skills and Lifelong Learning, said: "It is an unfortunate truth that recession hits the youngest hardest. That is why we have come up with a package of measures, through our summer leavers taskforce, to help our young people take advantage of the opportunities available to them.

"With the launch of Young Scot Extra there is now an extra tool available to help those making the difficult transition from school to independent living.

"I am sure this online resource will become an invaluable source of information for all Scotland's young people as they set off on the path to adulthood."

Rachel Tobin, 17, Edinburgh, added: "I'm really looking forward to using Young Scot Extra as it is geared towards my age group and full of new information. I am a keen volunteer and will use it to look for new opportunities as well as advice about the job market. I have used Young Scot for many years now, and can't wait to check out all the new services Young Scot Extra has to offer."