From 2020, MFC Foundation will engage hundreds of young people aged 16 and 17, delivering National Citizen Service (NCS) – a four-week programme funded by the Government.
In partnership with EFL Trust, MFC Foundation won the contract to continue the delivery of NCS from 2020 onwards, joining 65 delivery partners who will be managed by EFL Trust.
NCS is one of the fastest-growing youth programmes, engaging 500,000 young people since piloting in 2009. The NCS experience aims to give young people a clearer idea of what they want from their future.
They will take on fresh challenges, get a taste of independence and be given a platform to have their voices heard and deliver a social action project that will positively impact their local area. Through EFL Trust, over 1.8 million hours of voluntary work has been delivered, addressing local and national issues which young people are passionate about, such as mental health, the environment and plastic waste.
MFC Foundation has delivered NCS since 2013 engaging over 600 young people. During that time, those young people have delivered over 18,000 hours of social action in Middlesbrough which has included regeneration of locally based projects, supporting local and national campaigns and raising funds and awareness for community-based projects.
Ben Young, graduated NCS with MFC Foundation in September this year and believes that the programme has changed his life.
NCS has definitely helped with my social skills,” says Ben, pictured above with Boro midfielder Jonny Howson. “When I started I was very quiet and reserved, especially because I had only attended one keep warm event. As the programme progressed I came out of my shell as I became more comfortable with the other group members, so much so, that I was able to become a project manager during social action week. NCS has definitely taught me to be more confident and to socially mix with new people. I was also incredibly lucky to meet people who I will hold close to me, and that definitely wouldn’t have happened if I didn’t do NCS. As a result, I feel like I’ve made a huge difference in such a short period of time and I’m looking forward to continuing my journey through the local youth board.
Kelly Daley, NCS Coordinator, for MFC Foundation, is delighted to be part of the new network of NCS delivery partners, saying. “The value of NCS is astounding and has significantly supported the development of Middlesbrough’s young adults over the last six years. To be able to continue to deliver such a valuable programme is an honour for MFC Foundation, and recognises the commitment we invest into our local communities.’
Chief Executive of NCS Trust, Michael Lynas said;
“I’m incredibly proud of everything that NCS has achieved in the last ten years. As it moves into the next phase of its life, I’m confident NCS can make a more significant difference for our young people and their communities than ever before.”
Please call 01642 767674 for details on how you can get involved.