Local Telford MP, Lucy Allan has today visited teenagers taking part in the National Citizen Service in Telford.
As part of the visit Lucy met with a group of young people on the course at Southwater Library and talked about the work they have been doing around Telford. The group who’s chosen charity is Telford After Care Team (TACT) are carrying our various activities to raise money for TACT which including selling homemade cakes and pastries as holding a raffle for a hamper through tombola.
TACT was founded in 2012 by Robert Eyers who himself endured 20 years of addiction. During his recovery Rob became aware of the lack of support available for service users in Telford like himself. The main aim of TACT is to assist people in recovery from using drugs or alcohol. This is achieved by improving the health and wellbeing of its service users; empowering people to lead productive and fulfilling lives so that they can once again be valued members of the community.
As part of the Service, teenagers volunteer 30 hours of the time to work on community projects as well as attending an outward bounds centre for a week.
National Citizen Service is available to those aged 16 and 17 and because of government support costs just £50 to undertake which covers accommodation and food for two weeks. Extra support is available for those whose parents are on lower incomes.
Speaking after the visit, Lucy said:
“Meeting with these young people it was clearly apparent how much the scheme has benefited all those taking part. Everyone I spoke to was enthusiastic about the scheme and proud of the work they had done and skills they had learnt.
“I am also so pleased that this NCS group have chosen TACT as their chosen charity. TACT do such amazing work in the community, helping those most in need transform their lives.
“I was so impressed by the ideas and creativity of these young people. They are learning and developing valuable skills which will help them get on in life.”
