Cash boost to fight substance abuse

Projects to reduce drug and alcohol abuse and teenage pregnancy in
some of the UK’s most disadvantaged areas have been given
£1.6m by the government.

The money will fund the Young People’s Development Programme,
offering 13 to 15 year olds an integrated programme of education
and training opportunities.

Under the scheme, which will be co-ordinated by the National Youth
Agency, 27 pilots will run for three years and will introduce young
people to training in journalism, arts, sport, mentoring and life
skills.

The programme is based on a similar approach in the US, which has
led to reductions in teenage pregnancies.

The pilots will be evaluated to help guide future policy on
reducing substance abuse and improving sexual health.