Island charity Challenge and Adventure is to close after providing support to young people on the Island for more than 27 years. The charity’s activities were centred around the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme and aimed at young people often outside the school system or facing other difficulties.
Funding for the charity was provided in the past by a number of organisations including the IW Council and the Police and Crime Commissioners, as well as local fundraising. However, cuts in central and local government funding over recent years led to a partnership with HTP Apprenticeship College which enabled the charity to continue their work.
A statement from the charity issued on Wednesday, August 20 said that amendments last September to central grant funding led to changes in how courses must be delivered After considering all options the Trustees had decided that the time is right to close and thanked Rachael Randall and the HTP team for their support. It was confirmed that a similar Challenge Group for young learners will continue under the direction of HTP based at their premises.
Gill Kennett, Chair of Trustees at Challenge and Adventure said, “The Trustees are pleased that the activities of Challenge & Adventure can be carried on; and thank both the teams at HTP, and Wight Aid for their support – as well as the staff and volunteers who have played a part in the development of Challenge & Adventure over the years”.
Well known Island fundraiser Karen Eeles (pictured), who has been the face of Challenge and Adventure since 2013 has moved to WightAid where she will continue her work for Island charities.