Mansfield MP Ben Bradley has welcomed news that two youth groups in Mansfield have benefited from the first phase of the £380m Youth Investment Fund, delivered by BBC Children In Need.

5th Mansfield (St John’s Pathfinders) Sea Scout Group will receive a grant of £7,376 to fund a sailing dinghy to develop sailing skills for children and young people.

Switch Up CIC will receive a grant of £36,500 to fund sports and IT equipment, as well as a refurbishment. It will help to improve physical and mental health, reduce negative behaviour, and raise aspirations for young people with adverse childhood experiences, NEET, or at risk of crime.

Ben said: “I’m over the moon that 5th Mansfield (St John’s Pathfinders) Sea Scout Group and Switch Up CIC have been awarded grants from the Youth Investment Fund.

“This is levelling up in action and I’m delighted we’re prioritising young people by providing youth groups with funding to support their health and wellbeing, as well as teach them valuable skills! I’m consistently urging Government to invest in Mansfield and ensure we provide more opportunities for people to get the best start in life. I’m delighted Ministers are listening to me!”