Shepton Mallet MP James Heappey has praised local students taking part in the National Citizens Service (NCS) and is encouraging Somerset residents to support them.
The group will host a fun day at Collett Park between 4:30pm and 8:30pm on Thursday in aid of mental health charity South Somerset Mind.
The students are coming towards the end of the NCS programme, a two-four week programme for 15-17 year olds, which includes a week of outdoor activities coupled with confidence-boosting challenges.
Mr Heappey was impressed with the teenagers’ commitment and pleased to hear they had chosen South Somerset Mind to support as mental health provisions in the county have been a priority since he was elected in 2015.
He added: “It was fantastic to meet the brilliant NCS group at Whitstone Leisure Centre on Friday. I am pleased they feel the experience has been so valuable and some have really grown in confidence over the three weeks.
“I think it is a great scheme and wanted to make sure they advertised their event so they get the support they deserve.
“Mental health is something we are talking about much more and in order to achieve parity of esteem, it is crucial young people feel they can talk about it as well. I think it is an excellent cause and I am sure they will reach their fundraising target.”
Mr Heappey filmed the group showcasing the fun day on his social media channel and congratulated them on their achievements as a result of the NCS scheme.