National Citizen Service positive catalyst to delivering Big Society agenda

David Cameron has outlined plans to encourage 16-year-olds to undertake an eight-week programme of voluntary community work, a project he describes as a key component to his Big Society vision. Grant funding agreements will be available for organisations who can deliver the programme in a range of locations across England during the planned pilot period.

The National Citizen Service (NCS) scheme – first announced during the election campaign – aims to help teenagers who feel their lives "lack shape and direction", giving them the opportunity to foster new skills and inspiring them to become socially responsible through community involvement.

"There is a tragic waste of potential in this country today," the Prime Minister said.

"National Citizen Service will help change that. It's going to teach them what it means to be socially responsible. Above all it's going to inspire a generation of young people to appreciate what they can achieve and how they can be part of the Big Society."

Minister for the Cabinet Office, Francis Maude, said:

"We know that across the country many young people are ready to stand up and make a difference to their local community. We see NCS as key to building a Big Society, to increasing engagement, cohesion and responsibility for young people across the country.

"This programme will allow a whole generation of young people to make a difference in their local area and play an active role in making society a better place."

Responding to the plans, Sir Stuart Etherington, Chief Executive of NCVO, said:

"The National Citizen Service will be a very positive catalyst for engaging young people in their communities and inspiring them to carry on volunteering throughout their lives. 

"The initiative has been developed in collaboration with voluntary organisations and is a good example of how the sector can play its part in delivering the Big Society."

Pilot schemes involving 10,000 young people are expected to run next summer, although the full scope of the project relies heavily on the forthcoming spending review and subsequent budget cuts.

A competitive commissioning exercise will be launched on 2nd August for organisations to deliver these pilots. Information events for potential bidders are due to be held in London on Thursday 5th August (1-3pm) and in Sheffield on Monday 9th August (1-3pm). For more details, please visit the Cabinet Office website or email mailbox.nationalcitizenservice@education.gsi.gov.uk.

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