#Chances4Children: Outward Bound offers free activity days for disadvantaged children

Through the 1,000 days of summer scheme, young people aged 11-17 who are eligible for free school meals will receive free activity days at Outward Bound centres in Ullswater in the Lake District and in Aberdovey in Snowdonia.

There are 1,000 activity days available, which are fully funded thanks to a donation of £100,000 from housebuilder Barratt Developments.

Adventure activities offered at the centres include canoeing, abseiling, climbing and wild swimming.

Outward Bound is a charity that provides adventurous outdoor experiences that help develop young people's resilience, self-confidence and positivity skills.

Nick Barrett, chief executive of The Outward Bound Trust, said that it developed the scheme after being unable to offer its traditional residential courses this summer due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We wanted to help as many young people as we can to take some time out, find some perspective on the challenges they’ve faced during lockdown and enjoy some positive social interactions in the great outdoors,” he said. “As it’s still not easy for people to travel, the majority of places will support young people who are local to our centres - an opportunity for us to give back to the communities that support us so richly.”

In January, Barratt Developments launched a £1 million partnership with Outward Bound. This additional donation is aimed at helping young people successfully transition out of lockdown after spending more time indoors than usual due to the pandemic lockdown.

Barratt Developments chief executive, David Thomas, said: “Right now young people need as much support as possible and the 1,000 days of summer will help people who might not otherwise get an opportunity like it this summer.”

Find out more about CYP Now's #Chances4Children campaign.