Chichester teenagers help the homeless

Members of G Squad in Priory Park for their National Citizen Service charity event

The group of 16 teenagers were working on the National Citizen Service (NCS) programme and chose to support Stonepillow, which provides a lifeline to homeless people in Chichester, Bognor Regis and Littlehampton.

Called G Squad, the team organised a car boot sale in Chichester and a charity event in Priory Park, including a bake sale and raffle with prizes donated by local businesses.

Tracey Angell, whose daughter Madeleine was part of the group, said: “All 16 of them put in a lot of time planning the event. They have been through all the processes – council permission, risk assessments, etc. – which has been part of their project planning.”

Madeleine was put forward by her school, Chichester High School for Girls, to take part in the Government initiative, which supports local community engagement.

Tracey added: “It involves a social action project for the local community where they plan and organise a project and fund-raise for a cause they choose.

“The children involved are 15 to 17 years old, from local schools, all who have chosen to do something worthwhile with their time during their summer holiday.

“The skills and experiences gained are recognised positively by employers and also recommended by UCAS.

“It has been worthwhile participating in, gaining skills which will help in the future work environment.

“Maddie has also had really good fun, as well as meeting a lot of new people. The whole programme lasts four weeks and ends with all participants receiving a signed letter from the Prime Minister.”

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