Motor project helps those who 'slip through net'

Financial support for a project that uses teaching practical skills to encourage young people to make "improved life choices" will allow it to help more of those who "slip through the net".

The Isle of Man Youth Motor Project has been given a two year package of support totalling £14,400 by charity Looky's Aid.

The Project runs a number of courses and mentoring schemes for young people over the age of 12 to teach practical, technical and basic living skills.

Manager Peter Hodgson said the funding would give the charity "security" beyond its normal financial restrictions, and enable it to employ an apprentice to reach more young people.

Established in 1997, it provides courses in engineering and vehicle repair to vulnerable young people.

The project also runs a mentoring scheme and aims to use some of the funding provide continuity of support to those over the age of 18.

Mr Hodgson said there were a number of young people who "don't want to engage with conventional methods of education" and they were to focus of the programmes offered.

The two year package of support was provided by Looky's Aid, a charity founded in memory of 21-year-old Lucas Martin to help disadvantaged young people

Trustee Connor Martin said the Isle of Man Youth Motor Project was the "perfect fit" and his younger brother Lucas 'Looky' Martin would have given "a big thumbs up to the idea of helping them continue with their great work".

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