Young National Citizens serving local communities

Local MP, David Rutley, recently joined a group of young people in Macclesfield, who were taking part in this year’s NCS (National Citizen Service) inspiring summer programme.

During his visit, David met NCS participants in the programme to explain about the role of an MP and their work in Parliament and in serving the community. He answered questions on issues ranging from climate change to local concerns. The participants then explained to David how they were actively preparing for their bake sale in support of Age UK Cheshire East, which took place the following day to raise much-needed funds for the local charity outside its shop on Exchange Street, Macclesfield. 

David is committed to supporting NCS’s summer programmes in the local area. He continues to be impressed by the way NCS works hard to engage, inspire, unite and empower young people to achieve their dreams and aspirations, no matter where they are from or what their background is. Its programmes seek to instil a sense of public service and citizenship, inspiring a lifelong commitment to service in their local communities and in the country. 

It was positive to see nearly 50 young people sign up for this summer’s NCS programmes in Macclesfield and Congleton and benefit from all that the activities have to offer. The coronavirus pandemic has led to young people having their education disrupted and often facing an uncertain future and job market. Many have faced real challenges with their mental health and well-being, and social bonds have been stretched. This has meant that NCS has been needed more than ever. 

In 2020, NCS was not able to deliver its residential programmes because of coronavirus, so it launched a ‘Staying Connected’ hub for young people to connect digitally during lockdown. Its ‘Keep Doing Good’ programme empowered young people to deliver over 500,000 hours of social action and volunteering. Since 2009, more than 600,000 young people have taken part in NCS, completing over 15  million hours of community action, and gaining priceless life experiences.

Following the meeting, David said, “It was great to see first-hand once again how NCS is helping to develop young people’s life skills, resilience and well-being, while boosting community engagement. NCS offers the chance to take on new challenges, experience exciting activities, make long-lasting friendships and develop vital life skills. I know it has been a real help to the young people I met on this summer’s programme and I hope that many more will take the opportunity to get involved next year – and at the same time make a real difference in our community.”