I have enjoyed spending more time in the constituency this summer
once parliament was in recess. As always, one of the highlights of was a
visit to those participating in this year’s National Citizen Programme.
National Citizenship Service (NCS) was set up back in 2011 as a
type of modern day, non-military National Service, NCS is open to all 16-17 year
olds in England and aims to bring together young people from all sorts of
different backgrounds, helping to break down social barriers and develop
self-confidence.
As NCS is a residential course, it gives participants the
opportunity to leave home behind for a couple of weeks and immerse themselves
in a fresh environment and make new friends. This can be a great way to develop
their confidence and independence as it means those taking part are all in the
same boat. It doesn’t matter what school they go to or where their parents live
and it’s a great way of breaking down social barriers.
The team I met had done a wonderful job restoring a memory garden
at St Martin’s nursing home in Camborne. Speaking to those taking part, it was
clear to me just how much they had benefited from NCS and they deserve a big
congratulations for taking on the challenge.
Another recent highlight was a visit to Wheels to Work at
Camborne, and the next door charity Life Cycle. Both do good work in our
community. Wheels to Work provides subsidised motorcycle rental to help people
in remote areas in Cornwall secure a job and travel to work. Life Cycle takes
in unwanted bike donations and reconditions them, providing work experience in
the process.
I also spent some time in Redruth, where I held an open surgery.
This was incredibly well attended, and I am pleased to have had the opportunity
to speak to so many local people and help them with various problems that they
have encountered.