MP calls on Government to follow Scotland’s lead to support outdoor education centres

Cumbrian MP Tim Farron is calling on the UK Government to follow Scotland's lead in providing a financial support package for outdoor education centres.

This week the Scottish Government announced £2million of support to mitigate the financial challenges facing the residential outdoor education sector as a result of the coronavirus crisis.

Earlier this month, Tim tabled a motion in Parliament calling for outdoor education centres to be included in any new support for the hospitality and leisure sector and urging the Department for Education to change its current guidelines which prevent overnight educational visits.

Tim said: "Outdoor education centres are a really important part of Cumbria's economy and play a key role in developing young people's confidence and improving their physical and mental health.

"This week's announcement from the Scottish Government is really welcome - now it's time for the Government in Westminster to follow their lead and act.

"Many jobs and livelihoods in our county are on the line - we really need the Chancellor and Education Secretary to intervene so that our local outdoor education centres are able to make it through the Winter."