Manx scouts expand additional needs programme

Manx Scouts works with about 700 young people on the island.

An expansion of an Isle of Man Scouting Association's programme for those with additional needs will see 33 more students take part.

The association has been awarded funding of £2,450 to roll out the programme, which includes activities such as climbing, archery, fishing, bushcraft and gardening, in ore schools.

While it was previously offered at Castle Rushen High School, units at Ballakermeen, St Ninian's and University College Isle of Man will now been included.

The association's Guy Thompson said the activities were aimed at "helping build skills" as well as an opportunity for the children to "have fun".

He said was "delighted" to be able to roll this out to more students across different high schools on the island after the success in the south of the island.

The funding has been provided by the Manx Lottery Trust.

Chairman Stephen Turner said the project aligned with the trust's "mission to support local communities and provide opportunities for personal and social development of our island’s young people".