In 2012 the government announced a £10 million cash boost to help train thousands of new volunteers for members of Youth United – national youth groups like The Girls’ Brigade, Fire Cadets and St John Ambulance.
Over the past 2 years, in areas where youth volunteering organisations had only a limited presence, an incredible 627 new, permanent, self-sustaining cub packs, guiding patrols and cadet troops are now established far exceeding the original target of 400.
Nearly 12,000 new places have been made available for young people providing the opportunity to learn teamwork, leadership, self-confidence and communication skills as well as experience new activities thanks to the army of local volunteers recruited by Youth United’s member organisations.
At a Parliamentary reception, Mr Pickles met young people who have benefitted from the programme and saw first hand how it had changed their lives.
Eric Pickles meeting a cadet Speaking at the event, Eric Pickles said:
Our great youth groups like the Scouts, Guides and Cadets have a tremendous history of providing unique experiences and activities that young people cherish, but that’s only half the story. They foster life-skills that will last them the rest of their lives and help nurture bright, confident young men and women with a keen sense of adventure.
Over the past 2 years, with our help, Youth United has recruited a new army of local volunteers to run cub packs, girls’ brigades and cadet troops – providing young people of all backgrounds with the chance to try a whole host of exciting and challenging activities together whilst instilling in them respect and responsibility for others so they become great citizens of the future.