Free activities for children to reduce inequality

Mayor Chris Cooke said he experienced the care system and did not get the same opportunities as others

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 10x10 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.