I was delighted to attend a ceremony in Fleetwood today to mark the success of some Prince’s Trust candidates who’ve been working with the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service. They’ve all taken part in a 12-week full-time course, delivered by Fire and Rescue staff on behalf of the Princes Trust. It is available to 16-25 year olds and is aimed at improving confidence, motivation and skills. Available for both unemployed and employed young people, it includes work experience, careers advice, qualifications, challenging projects, community action and an action-packed team building week-long residential. The programme is free and those that are unemployed should continue to receive benefits.
The Team Programme is based in Preston; Burnley; Blackburn; Pendle; Fleetwood; Blackpool; Deepdale; Morecambe and ACCROSS (Accrington and Rossendale College).

Whilst re-building their self-esteem, participants are encouraged to think about their futures; this includes preparing a post-programme development plan. During the 12-weeks, participants:

Gain nationally recognised qualifications (Certificate in Teamwork, Employability and Community skills.
Gain key Skills in Working with Others, Improving Own Learning and Performance and Problem Solving
Improve Numeracy and Literacy on a personal e-programme
Uncover hidden talents
Improve their motivation and self-confidence
Assume some responsibility and leadership
Develop team working and communication skills
Raise their awareness of their local community and how they can contribute to it.

Congratulations to all involved!