Ocean Youth Trust Scotland (OYT Scotland) is pleased to be selected as one of the 17 groups to be awarded funding to help some of Scotland’s most disadvantaged young people. “On Course with CashBack” will provide exemplary youth work to help raise the attainment, aspirations and ambition of disadvantaged young people across Scotland.
Justice Secretary Michael Matheson made the funding announcement stating:
“With this money we are supporting Scotland’s most disadvantaged young people to reach their full potential in life, helping them to learn new skills, boost their confidence and become responsible people.
“We have already supported thousands of young people through our CashBack initiative with £75 million committed and nearly two million activities and opportunities offered since 2008. With this latest funding we demonstrate our commitment to tackle inequality and keep young people active in their communities.
“Through CashBack we are punishing those who break the law and directing their ill-gotten gains directly back into Scotland’s communities.
“A total of 17 groups across Scotland will benefit from this money, providing support and training which could change lives.”
CEO of Ocean Youth Trust Scotland Nick Fleming, said: “We are delighted to continue our partnership with the government’s CashBack for Communities programme. Over the next three years, our “On Course with CashBack” programme will enable an additional 280 young people from across Scotland to take part in our life-changing residential voyages, helping them develop the skills to move them onto positive destinations.”
Stuart McMillan, MSP for Greenock and Inverclyde has been a long term supporter of the charity commented, “I am delighted that Ocean Youth Trust Scotland have secured a funding award from the Scottish Government ‘CashBack for Communities’ scheme – this is a tribute to all the volunteers, donors and staff. I am one of the OYT Scotland Ambassadors and I know first-hand that they have provided a life changing opportunity to thousands of young people from all backgrounds – some of them very disadvantaged or vulnerable. Thanks to this funding the Trust can offer voyages to hundreds of young people in our community for years to come.”