National Citizen Service scheme launched
A National Citizen Service scheme through which teenagers will
undertake summer volunteering placements has been outlined by David
Cameron as part of a series of projects that are due to start next
year.
The scheme is set to run each year during the summer holidays
and will give 16 year olds the chance to complete six or seven week
placements with charities, local businesses and voluntary groups,
during which they will complete outdoor challenges, residential
volunteering programmes and a community action challenge. Although
participation on the scheme will not be compulsory, it is hoped
that participation levels will be high.
The cost of the scheme is estimated to be approximately £13
million in 2011 and £37 million in 2012. The scheme will for the
most part be government funded, although it is hoped that money
will also be provided by sponsorship and local fundraising.
