Free activities for children to reduce inequality

by Rachel

A town's mayor has launched a pilot scheme that aims to ensure children have access to 10 activities by the age of 10.

The 10×10 programme is part of the Middlesbrough Childhood Guarantee and will see youngsters offered experiences like free access to swimming lessons, sport events and theatre tickets as part of a pledge to reduce inequality.

Last year the Department of Work and Pensions found the town's Newport ward had the highest levels of child poverty in the UK at 85%.

Labour mayor Chris Cooke said: "I came from a care background where I didn't get the same opportunities as other people growing up, but I also know how life changing a few amazing experiences can be."

Initially the programme will be run as a pilot scheme involving a number of Middlesbrough's primary schools, but could be rolled out across the town at a later date.

Children will be given a booklet and encouraged to tick off the events as they go.

Middlesbrough's Childhood Guarantee was unveiled on Thursday as the National Lottery Fund announced a £1.4m investment in youth service providers in the town.

The Junction, Youth Focus North East, Actes Trust and Linx Youth Project will receive a share of the money for their work with young people and families.

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