A LAKES charity is calling for young adults to apply for the Aspiring Leaders Programme (ALP), which aims to reinvigorate the voluntary and community sector in Cumbria and North Lancashire.

The pioneering leadership development programme is run by Ambleside’s Brathay Trust, the University of Cumbria and Common Purpose, supported by Francis C Scott Trust and a range of funders.

It takes an innovative approach to learning by combining formal academic teaching with experiential learning and personal development, aiming to keep talented young adults in their local area who can respond to the needs of their community and then work within them to make a positive impact, raising wider community aspirations, affluence and skills.

ALP is aimed at 19-32 year-olds already volunteering or working in the voluntary and community sector, and particularly those who may not have previously engaged with formal learning opportunities. Nominated by local sector leaders, candidates undergo an assessment process before being offered a place.

During the fully-funded three year programme the participants take part in leadership and personal development workshops at Brathay Hall, attend degree lectures and seminars at the University of Cumbria, are assigned leadership mentors and placements, and gain work experience and run leadership projects. The course results in a Degree in Social Enterprise Leadership.

This is the fourth time the programme has been run, and the programme will begin in January 2021, having been delayed by the coronavirus pandemic.

Recruitment for ALP was put on hold in March and the intended September start date pushed back. With changes made to ensure that it can be delivered in a Covid-secure manner, the organisers believe it is now the right time to be re-starting recruitment, to support local young adults and third sector organisations in the area.

Andrew Woodhead, the programme’s leader at Brathay, said “We’re looking for people who want to make a positive difference to the community in which they live and work.”

The deadline for applications is November 6. For more information visit www.brathay.org.uk/alp