MP for Lancaster and Fleetwood visits community-minded teens
Yesterday, Cat Smith the MP for Lancaster and Fleetwood visited over 50 teenagers at the University of Cumbria’s Lancaster campus who are on the National Citizen Service (NCS) programme.
As part of the programme, young people learn about how to make a difference in their local area. Cat spoke to the 16 and 17 yr olds about their plans and reminded them of the important impact teenage volunteering has on the local community.
NCS is a two-three week youth empowerment programme taking place across Lancashire during school holidays. It helps young people expand their horizons whilst learning key skills for work and life. The MP’s appearance is a show of support for the programme.
Cat Smith MP said: “It is great to see the enthusiasm of the NCS participants and to understand the impact they want to make with their social activism in our local area. I am pleased to see young people taking part in outdoor activities, meeting new people and also giving something back to their communities, so I am delighted to be able to support the work of the National Citizen Service this summer.”
Joe Wood, 16, from Lancaster, was in the group as Cat Smith MP gave her talk on the impact teenagers can have in the community. Joe is on the third week and is currently planning out his social action.
Joe says: “It was great to meet Cat Smith on NCS, her visit makes me realise what a great opportunity the programme is. I’ve made so many new friends already, and we’re working hard to raise awareness and donations for many charities including Celiac UK. I’ll never forget my time here, and I’m already thinking of how to include this on my CV!”
NCS is a two or three week full-time programme focused around fun and discovery, plus 30 hours committed to a community project that benefits both young people and society. It takes place across England and Northern Ireland during the summer and autumn holidays. It is open to all 15-17 year olds for no more than £50. For more information visit www.ncsnorthwest.co.uk.
