The 100th team of young people to benefit from the free 12 week ‘Prince’s Trust’ programme with South Wales Police attended a special event last week (Thurs 10th June) to celebrate their success at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff.
Special Guest, actor Stefan Rhodri who plays Dave Coaches in Welsh hit series Gavin and Stacey was also there to present the team members with their City and Guilds certificates.
During the Princes Trust program participants learn to work as a team through a number of exciting and challenging activities which uncover their hidden talents, skills and interests and build their self confidence and esteem so that they are better prepared to look for a job.
Over 2000 young people have benefited from the programme since it began in 1998, of that number over half have been from the Cardiff area, with over 87% of all those entering the programme later finding employment, entering further education or continuing with further training.
During the ceremony South Wales Police Assistant Chief Constable Nick Croft said:
“It is a fantastic privilege to be here today. Young people often get bad press. You hear about anti-social behaviour orders relating to young people for example when ASBO’s are usually given to adults!
“We are delighted to be celebrating the 100th team milestone in Cardiff and look forward to seeing the young people within this team develop into successful young adults.
“It is a tough program and not everyone sticks to it. Often people leave early and it really is a huge achievement to get to the end.
He added:
“South Wales Police is totally committed to the Prince’s Trust. It is a huge pleasure for me to see the development of the young people here today.”
Team 100 member Leighton Cordt, 17 from Cardiff said, “I used to spend my days lying around doing nothing or getting into trouble. I have found the Prince’s Trust course extremely motivating and now want to join the military.”
Fellow team mate Danielle Lyons, 16 also from Cardiff said, I” used to sit at home doing nothing really. Since I found out about the Prince’s Trust I have been kept motivated and busy. I now know what I want to do with my life – I would like to go to Africa to help poor children.”
For more information about future Prince’s Trust program, visit the website www.princes-trust.org.uk
