Devon teenagers finishing their GCSEs or in Year 12 this summer are being encouraged to sign up for a free five-week programme being delivered by Young Devon in partnership with the British Red Cross.

The course is part of National Citizen Service (NCS), a flagship government initiative, which aims to promote a more cohesive, responsible and engaged society by bringing young people from different backgrounds together to make a difference in their communities.

It is a voluntary programme for 16 and 17 year olds which focuses on their personal and social development and includes challenging activities, from away-from-home residential experiences to a self-designed social action project.

Karen Young, British Red Cross project co-ordinator, said: 'This is all about encouraging young people to engage with their communities, to learn new skills, challenge themselves, meet new friends and make a real difference in the area they live.'

NCS starts with a one-week residential course away from the county, with activities such as kayaking or climbing. This is followed by another one week residential course, this time in Devon to complete national qualifications in first aid or humanitarian education.

Once the residential courses are finished, participants will move on to their social action project. This could be on any social action work which helps the community, including providing first aid on local beaches or delivering an education workshop to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS. After a week of planning, groups complete 30 hours of volunteering to carry out their project.

The only criteria for the programme is you must be 16 or 17 by August 31. Visit http://www.youngdevon.org/ncs">www.youngdevon.org/ncs today to find out more or email Karen Young at [email protected]">[email protected] to sign up and avoid disappointment.