Delivering the National Citizen Service to Shropshire’s young people

Shropshire Council’s positive activities team (youth service) are currently delivering the National Citizen Service (NCS) in Shropshire.

NCS is open to all 16- and 17-year-olds in England.  It helps young people to build their skills for work and life, while they take on new challenges and meet new friends.

Over the last few weeks 46 young people from across the county have taken part in two week-long residential experiences, one at the National Water Sports Centre in Nottingham and this week at Walford College.

The young people have taken part in lots of exciting activities like kayaking, high ropes courses and whitewater rafting, as well as activities that build team work and knowledge like a First Aid course, a driving lesson with local instructors and a ‘Dragons Den’ experience to help with their presentation skills.

Throughout August 2014 the team will continue to develop these skills so that the young people can identify and deliver a piece of social action in their communities.

Gwilym Butler, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member responsible for youth services, said:

“National Citizen Service is a great opportunity for young people in Shropshire.  It provides a chance to volunteer in the community and enhance local communities, whilst giving young people a chance to learn new skills and increase confidence in themselves.”

The teams from Shropshire Council will be based in Whitchurch, Bridgnorth and Shrewsbury.