Twelve projects have been launched to pilot the National Citizen programme. The projects will run for eight weeks and they will include a residential element involving tough physical challenges and a community element, where young people will develop social action projects to help their communities. The programme is part of the Big Society agenda.

The National Citizen Service has been created because many young people feel isolated from society. The Service will bring 16-year-olds together from all different backgrounds to give them the skills and confidence to make a difference in their communities. The aim is to provide every 16-year-old with the chance to take part in the scheme.
Over 250 organisations reponded to the invitation to run the pilots and the 12 groups selected include Bolton Lads and Girls Club, the Football League Trust and the Challenge Network.

Nick Hurd, Minister for Civil Society, said: “National Citizen Service is a hugely important scheme for charities, voluntary groups and social enterprises. As well as the opportunities to deliver the programme it will foster a culture of volunteerism and social responsibility in our young people. The next generation will be ready to use the massive devolution of power to communities that underpins the Big Society.”