PCC commends teens after citizens programme
TEENAGERS, who took part in the National Citizens Service (NCS) programme, were presented with certificates by Nick Alston Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex.
The youngsters, all aged between 15 and 17, took part in the NCS programme in Essex which aims to give them the chance to learn important life skills, contribute to the community and achieve a recognisable accreditation at the same time.
As part of the government-led scheme, teenagers take part in outdoor activities, volunteer on community projects, create and carry out a project in their local area and build work and life skills. Once they complete the programme they walk away with a certificate recognised by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
The NCS programme in Essex is delivered by Essex County Council, the Essex Boys and Girls Clubs and other local councils.
Youngsters who completed the programme were presented with their certificates by Nick Alston at a ceremony at the Colchester campus of the University of Essex.
PCC Nick Alston addresses youngsters who completed the NCS programme
Mr Alston said: “I would like to offer my congratulations to and commend all those young people who participated in this programme.
“Getting young people involved in building safer, more resilient communities is critical and programmes, such as the National Citizen Service, aim to do exactly that.”
One group of the youngsters who took part in the latest NCS programme worked with the Clacton-based weapons awareness charity Only Cowards Carry. The charity was set up by Caroline Shearer after her son, Jay Whiston, was stabbed to death in Colchester in 2012.
The awards ceremony took place on Saturday October 11.
