THE UK National Citizen Service was launched in Wales last week and will be open to young people in Barry.

The NCS is a project that aims to help 16 and 17-year-olds to build skills for work and life. The scheme helps them develop greater confidence, self-awareness and responsibility and encourages personal and social development by working on skills like leadership, teamwork and communication.

MP Alun Cairns said he wants to see young people from Barry get involved and benefit from the scheme that has been a huge success across England and Northern Ireland.

Mr Cairns said: “I am delighted that this scheme is being extended to Wales. It gives young people in Barry a chance to mix with people from different backgrounds and gain valuable life experiences.

"It will also help them develop important skills that they can take with them into the world of work. I want to see young people from Barry get the first opportunity to take part in the scheme.

“Projects elsewhere in the UK have included attending state of the art activity centres, taking part in team sports and taking part in fantastic charitable events.

"I am delighted that the Welsh Government has decided to support the UK funded scheme and I look forward to seeing the benefits of NCS in Barry."