Inverness charity offers young people chance to take part in Duke of Edinburgh's Award programme

A Merkinch-based charity is offering 20 young people the chance to take part in its Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) programme.

Each year outdoor adventure provider Àban leads young people in the 12 month challenge, which involves an expedition from Ardgay to Ullapool, a work placement and the chance to learn a new skill or physical activity.

Àban’s head of adventurous learning, Nele Adler said: “I believe that participants hugely benefit from the programme, it opens so many doors and helps young people in their transition into adulthood.

“Alongside learning new skills such as navigation and how to look after themselves and others in the outdoors, participants learn plenty of crucial “soft skills” such as communication, commitment, teamwork and resilience as part of their DofE journey with Aban.”

Participants will meet others from schools across the Highlands, or people who are already at college or in work. Àban provides a choice of local volunteering placements including Clachnacuddin Football Club and Abriachan Forest Trust.

Àban founder, Johannes Petersen added: “It has been amazing to see everybody’s confidence starting to come back now that lockdown is a distant memory. Past participants have gone on to secure apprenticeships, places at university, and first jobs in the local area. More than anything though, it has been great to see so many new friendships form.”

Àban will be hosting an open evening on June 26 for anyone interested in taking part. It will run from 6pm - 9pm at the Cameron Youth Centre on Planefield Road.

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