Future young leaders in Hampton will soon be able to take part in a leadership skills course to reach their potential.

That is thanks to £5,000 funding from Richmond Council’s civic pride fund.

MTV Youth in Hampton has received funding for a new 12-week leadership skills course for 12 young leaders, aged 13 and 14 years old.

Launching this autumn, the course will include 12 leadership skills sessions that focus on areas such as time management, values of leadership and communication.

There will also be one residential weekend, as well as external courses on safeguarding and first aid.

It is hoped that the young people will be able to utilise their skills to impact and positively benefit the local community.

The council’s civic pride fund is available to individuals or groups who want to organise a project or event to improve their local area and deliver more for their communities.

Grants of up to £5,000 are available to organisations and £1,000 for individuals.

Councillor David Linnette, cabinet member for voluntary services, said: “I am thrilled to be able to announce this funding for the young people of Hampton.

“The course will inspire and nurture the talent of exceptional young people from the area, so that they can create and lead others towards securing positive changes in their community.

“I cannot wait to see how their impressive endeavours grow and develop throughout the course and in the years beyond.”

Nick Neilan, lead youth worker at MTV Youth in Hampton, added: “We are extremely grateful to have been given this funding and can’t wait to get started.

“A key aim of MTV Youth is to see young people fulfil their potential and make a difference to the lives of others.

“This funding will enable us to equip our young people with the skills and character to be great leaders in the community both now and in the years ahead.”

For more information about MTV Youth in Hampton, go to: www.mtvhampton.org.uk

More information on the Civic Pride Fund can be found online at: www.richmond.gov.uk/civic_pride_fund