A group of young people taking part in NCS – National Citizen Service with Inspira took part in a mock trial to make them more aware of volunteering opportunities within their community.

(left to right in picture) Tegan from Maryport, Hannah from Workington and Leah from Maryport sat on the bench and played the role of Magistrates led by Children and Young persons Officer Keith Hunton of the Workington constabulary.

Constable Hunton said “A mock trial gives young people a valuable insight into how the courts work and makes them aware of volunteering opportunities”, “Magistrates are all volunteers”.

Young people who took part in the mock trial were excited to experience what it was really like in court.

Tegan “It was great, a once in a lifetime opportunity to be in court (hopefully)”

Hannah “Makes you realise about what goes on in court and the contribution volunteers make”

Leah “It was nerve wracking, but we learnt a lot”

Aera (left) from Cockermouth appears in the dock as a witness as part of the mock trail alongside Police Community Support Officer Rachel Pape from Aspatria.

Aera said “It was interesting learning about how a court works”

National Citizen Service is a country-wide programme for 16 and 17yr olds, delivered by Inspira in Cumbria and Lancashire. NCS is a once in a lifetime opportunity that helps young people build skills for work and life, while taking on new challenges and making their mark by volunteering for community projects.

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