The programme, expected to cost £2.5 billion per year, would offer young people two options:
Community volunteering through spending one weekend a month with organisations such as the NHS, fire service, ambulance, search and rescue, and critical local infrastructure.
Military training through one of up to 30,000 “selective” military placements reserved for teenagers deemed the “brightest and the best” in areas like logistics, cyber security, procurement or civil response operations over a year-long period.
Speaking to the BBC, Home Secretary James Cleverly said that the plans would be compulsory by law but added that there would be non-criminal sanctions for those who refused.
The Labour Party has labelled the pledge a “gimmick” while some youth sector leaders have questioned why suggested funding could not be used to boost existing services and tackle areas like child poverty.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
