Completing the Duke of Edinburgh award opens so many doors for young people. It provides challenge in new activities and encourages them to step out of their comfort zone. It teaches resilience and the courage to seek new adventures. The expedition element encourages teamwork and helps young people to recognise their individual talents within a group. All of these challenges and acquired skills assist with their personal development and improves their chances for employability in the future.

Quite often young people whose parents/carers are on low income are reluctant to sign up due to the cost of expedition kit. Every year we hire expedition kit from an external supplier which can be costly and kit is not always readily available due to the demand from other establishments. I am therefore undertaking a solo hike challenge along the Dales Way (81 miles from Ilkley to Windermere) in July 2018 to raise funds to ensure our disadvantaged children are equipped with what they need for their bronze expedition as I believe that all young people deserve the chance to take part. The Duke of Edinburgh Award inspires and transforms the lives of many young people from all walks of life. I want to ensure that it is inclusive to ALL children.