main content Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme to receive cash boost

More of the borough’s young people will be able to take part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, thanks to a substantial injection of funds raised by Councillor Mrs Anne Manning during her mayoral year. Councillor Mrs Manning raised over £28,000 through a variety of fund-raising events that harnessed the enthusiasm of local businesses and voluntary groups, as well as individual effort.

The borough has an outstanding record in enabling large numbers of young people to benefit from the scheme, which offers them the opportunity to develop skills and independence through a variety of activities including outdoor adventure. During 2004/5, no fewer than 16 young people completed the Gold level, while over 200 achieved Silver or Bronze. The new funds will be used to help young people who might otherwise be unable to meet the full costs of equipment, travel and activities to benefit from the scheme, as part of the range of provision for local youngsters. The local DoE committee will soon be announcing details of how individuals and groups of all kinds, providing the scheme in Bromley, will be able to apply for support.

A cheque was handed over to Councillor Peter Woods (Chairman of the local DoE Committee), at an informal ceremony at the Civic Centre. DoE Co-ordinator, Rod Potter, also presented Councillor Mrs Manning with a London Region “Certificate of Recognition”, acknowledging her outstanding contribution to the scheme.

Councillor Manning said: “I was delighted to receive so much support during my year of office for my charity and to have raised a sum which will really help to widen opportunities for Bromley young people to take part in the scheme. It was a most pleasurable part of my year to visit schools and centres in the Bromley area to see groups planning and preparing for their activities and to meet the leaders. I want to encourage as many local DoE groups as possible to come forward and apply for the funds once the criteria and application process have been announced in the new year”.

ENDS

For further information, please contact Mike Carney, Planning and Communication Manager, Education and Libraries (020 8313 4038) or email: mike.carney@bromley.gov.uk.