MORE young people are completing the Duke of Edinburgh Awards(DofE) in Hampshire.

The scheme, which increases employability, confidence and skills, and contributing to their communities, has seen more participation than the South East region by 13per cent.

In the last year, 69per cent of participants in Hampshire completed their DofE Award compared to 57per cent across the South East Region.

Leader of Hampshire County Council and Vice President of the Hampshire Duke of Edinburgh’s forum, Councillor Roy Perry, said: “The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award gives many young people the self-assurance, inspiration and skills they need to succeed in adulthood.

“It’s a tough programme and not everyone completes it, which is why we’re especially proud that, in Hampshire, such a high proportion of young people are gaining the Award.

“We believe Hampshire County Council’s range of training courses and support services for DofE centres, is a big factor in that high success rate. Running a DofE centre takes time, a good network of volunteers, and a detailed knowledge of the Awards’ requirements, and we’re grateful to those that provide this support”

Currently more than 4000 young people in Hampshire are working towards a Duke of Edinburgh Award.

For more information about the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in Hampshire, including how to take part, and how to apply to be a volunteer, email dofe@hants.gov.uk