Young people in Great Yarmouth with challenging lives can take part in a new scheme that offers what is described as a potentially life changing education break.

Youth charity YHA (England and Wales) has launched a Educational Support Programme, which will cover half the cost of accommodation and food for eight to 18 year olds staying at a youth hostel as part of an educational or recognised youth group.

It is open to young people who live in severe poverty, have additional challenges and are eligible for pupil premium.

Up to 10 young people in a group staying for a maximum of two nights can apply for support.

Groups can choose to stay at youth hostels in a wide range of city, coastal and rural locations in England and Wales.

James Blake, chief executive of YHA, said: “We are determined to help change the lives of young people who need and will benefit from our support the most.

“The Educational Support Programme will ensure young people who have challenging lives are the very ones that will have the opportunity to access a life enhancing stay with us, benefitting their health and wellbeing.

“I would encourage every school or youth group to apply.

“As a youth charity with more than 87 years’ experience of working with young people, we know that the experiences they have through travel can have a directly positive effect on their future; and independent research supports this.

“We know, for instance, that residential school trips help young people achieve more academically at school, increases their attendance record and enhances their relationship with their peers.”

The Educational Support Programme is part of YHA’s Breaks programme which also includes the new Family Breaks programme, launched by YHA last year. Families struggling with financial hardship, disability, long-term illness, bereavement, homelessness or other challenging circumstances can apply to YHA for a free two-night stay and meals at a youth hostel to enable them to have some quality family time.

Groups and schools can apply for YHA’s Educational Support funding until January 31. Applications can be made online at https://groups.yha.org.uk/educational-support-programme

For more information about the charity visit www.yha.org.uk