Scottish Conservatives call for Scottish Citizen Service Programme

Scottish Conservatives are calling on the SNP Government to introduce a Scottish Citizen Service Programme, similar to the scheme that is being rolled out south of the border.

Liz Smith MSP, Scottish Conservative Education Spokesperson, said:

"We have argued for some time that more has to be done to provide all young people with an understanding of the responsibilities they face as they enter adulthood – especially those which relate to the strengthening of their local communities.

"I believe there should be a distinctly Scottish version of the Citizen Service Programme which has just been established south of the border. This is a two month summer programme for 16-year olds, involving both residential and at-home components.

"It is being delivered by independent charities, social enterprises and businesses, helping young people from different economic, social and religious backgrounds to come together and work in local communities. It is also aimed at giving young people the interpersonal skills they need for work.

"Since the last UK election, and with limited funds, the programme in England has been supported by 12 different organisations which, in total, have provided 11,000 places for this summer's training. It has been well received in many quarters.

"In 2010 the SNP Government refused to even consider a distinctly Scottish version of Citizenship Service, dismissing it out of hand. They need to have a major re-think so that Scotland can do far more to harness the community spirit in more of our young people."

Please click on the link below for more information on the National Citizen Service scheme being introduced south of the border

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/YoungPeople/Workandcareers/Workexperienceandvolunteering/NationalCitizenService/index.htm

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