Military training helps teenagers ‘go in the right direction in life’

Marching orders: Young people put through tough training.© STV

Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill is visiting a scheme that puts troubled teenagers through tough military training.

The Army-led Youth Advantage Outreach course aims to steer young people away from trouble by putting them through their paces.

Mr MacAskill is visiting Castlelaw Farm in Edinburgh to see the course in action.

The five-day programme sees them take part in map reading, sport, adventure training, first aid, drills and living in the field.

It is aimed at people aged between 14 and 18, who have either committed minor offences or who have been identified as "on the verge of" committing crimes.

The scheme is backed by the Scottish Government, and police forces are also involved.

Speaking ahead of the visit, Mr MacAskill said: "We know that the vast majority of our young people are responsible members of society, however some of them can fall through the cracks and get involved in crime or antisocial behaviour.

"Cutting youth crime is a key priority for this Government and we want to nip bad behaviour in the bud early before it becomes a major problem later. Early intervention is the most effective way to do this.

"We recognise the value of what training like this can offer young people. Here they are developing skills and undergoing some tough army training that can help them go in the right direction in life, rather than getting themselves in trouble.

"Over many years, courses like this have made valuable contributions to our communities across Scotland."

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