Stephen Metcalfe,
local MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, was joined by young people who
have completed the National Citizen Service (NCS) at an event hosted by the
organisation in Parliament last week.
The NCS is a
once-in-a-lifetime opportunity open to all 16 & 17 year olds in England in
the Spring, Summer and Autumn holidays. The scheme aims to help young people
build their skills for work and life while they take on new challenges, meet
new friends, and help the local community.
Mr Metcalfe has
been promoting the program to young people in South Basildon and East Thurrock
and was delighted to have the opportunity to talk to experienced participants
about the benefits it holds for those who take part.
He commented: “It
was fantastic to hear firsthand how the scheme has helped young people up and
down the country. It has given them confidence, added to their skill-sets for
work and life, and provided an opportunity for them to gain memories that will
last a lifetime.”
Participants will make new friends and challenge themselves
throughout the programme, first taking on outward bound activities like cave
bouldering, rafting and abseiling, then learning new skills and creating
community projects on issues that matter to them.
The local MP
added: “I would encourage every young person aged 16 and 17 in South Basildon
and East Thurrock to take part in the NCS. It really is a brilliant scheme and
its benefits can’t be underestimated!”
For more information on how to take part in the nCS, visit www.ncsyes.co.uk,
call 0845 460 7410, email ncs.east@reed.co.uk or find "NCS East"
on Facebook and Twitter.