TEN more young people can take advantage of a life-changing outward bound course after additional funding has been put into the scheme.

Additional funding from the Outward Bound Trust/Gloucestershire Outward Bound Association and Gloucestershire’s Police Crime Commissioner has provided the extra places.

Nominations for the 30 places on the course open in September which previous participants have said has boosted their confidence and brought out skills and qualities they didn't know they had.

Links between the police and Outward Bound Association go back many years. It is a partnership funded by Police and Crime Commissioner Martin Surl as part of his Police and Crime Plan commitment towards helping young people become responsible adults.

Mr Surl said, “It’s impossible to put a value on the challenges and outdoor learning young people can get through Outward Bound which are quite different to those face in their everyday life. “I’m pleased I have been able to secure its future for the period I am in office and recommend it to all young people and their parents”.

PC Nicki Dannatt, who is co-ordinator of the Outward Bound Bursary Scheme - part of the constabulary’s schools unit in the public protection bureau - added: "Outward Bound is a unique, once in a lifetime personal development course and because it takes young people out of their comfort zone it gives them more personal responsibility and broadens their horizons.

“We also hope it fosters a positive perception of our staff, who also take part, that they will have for the rest of their lives”.

To find out more about Outward Bound courses and how to apply to join one go to: http://www.outwardbound.org.uk/courses/courses-for-individuals/our-courses/outward-bound-skills-for-life-award-(15-19)/