Instead of struggling to know what to do with their spare time this summer, teenagers aged 15-17, are responding to the impact Covid-19 has had in their local area by volunteering thousands of hours, to help rebuild their local community with ‘Keep Doing Good’ from NCS (National Citizen Service). Thousands of young people were due to go away this summer on NCS with the aim being to live independently, learn new skills, meet new people and volunteer, to make a positive impact in the community. However, due to the impact of Covid-19, the traditional NCS programme can’t go ahead and young people are instead pledging their time by signing up to ‘Keep Doing Good’.

The courses are underway and are being enjoyed by those taking part. Councillor tony Louki, the Mayor of Hounslow, stopped in today to see what was happening at the sessions. He spoke to those taking part.

The two-week programme will see young people volunteer over 16 hours each in their local community. In groups, they will plan and deliver a social action project, leaving a positive impact by supporting local food banks, care homes or helping local charities get back up running. Whatever they decide to do, they will pick up news skills, create positive change and help rebuild their local community. There is still a chance to take part and there is an offer for anyone who signs up.

The programme is open for teenagers in school Year 11 and 12 or those who completed the programme last year. Young people can sign up here. For more information, please email the Trust's NCS Manager at [email protected].