Member Article

MP visits community-minded teens in Sunderland

Shadow Minister for Public Health Sharon Hodgson MP, has backed local teenagers set to make a positive difference to their community, as she visited the National Citizen Service (NCS) programme in Sunderland. The visit of the Washington and Sunderland West MP to the programme was welcomed by participants, who were keen to tell her about their experience on NCS, a youth movement open to all 16 and 17 year olds.

The young people had just returned from an exciting stay in the Lake District, taking on challenges such as canoeing and mountaineering, before returning to the local area to build on new skills such as leadership and communication.

During her visit to an NCS programme delivered by local partner Groundwork, Sharon Hodgson MP observed a session in which teens learned essential first aid skills as well as a workshop on teenage mental health. Over the next few days the team were looking forward to sessions including an African-themed samba drumming session and a Bite the Ballot workshop emphasising the importance of voting. The group will then plan and deliver their own project to make a positive impact on communities in the Sunderland area.

Sharon Hodgson, MP for Washington and Sunderland West, said: “It is great to see the impact that NCS has had on this group of young people from Sunderland and hear about some of the grand plans they have on improving the local area through community projects.

“The NCS programme enables young people not only to take part in outdoor activities and meet new people but also to give something back to their communities, so I am delighted to once again be able to support National Citizen Service this autumn.“

16 year old Lewis Lumley from Houghton-le-Spring is part of the NCS group that Sharon visited. The Sunderland College student said: “I had an amazing time in the Lake District. From day one I made new friends and got to take part in fun activities like canoeing and a day exploring the mountains. Now, we’re developing new skills in preparation for our social action projects.

“I’m looking forward to giving back to the local area.“

Sharon also met with former graduates of NCS, including 17 year old Hannah Munslow from East Boldon, to chat about the skills and experiences they gained from taking part in the programme. Hannah said: “When I originally signed up to NCS I thought it would give me something different to do over the holidays but in reality is has offered me so, so much more.

“I was able to build up my CV and grow in confidence and I’ve been involved in lots of opportunities with NCS since I graduated. I’ve joined the regional NCS Youth Board, attended NCS YES LIVE in London and I also got the chance to visit the House of Lords.“

Kim Smith, Contract Director of NCS North East, a partnership of v•inspired, National Youth Agency (NYA) and twelve local delivery partners from the voluntary and community sector across the region, including Groundwork, said: “I am really pleased that Sharon has been able to witness the life-changing opportunities available to young people in Sunderland through NCS.“

Bookings are now open for the unmissable summer 2017 NCS experience, with parents or teenagers urged to call 0191 247 4020 or visit NCSNORTHEAST.co.uk to book a place.

NCS enables young people to expand their horizons whilst gaining essential skills. It is government-backed so will never cost more than £50 including food, transport and accommodation for the time away. Young people eligible for free school meals can take part for £10 or less.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by NCS North East .