Leaders of 1st Rainbow Scout Group, Ellan Vannin, will develop their skills with support from Manx Lottery Trust.

The group was set up to provide a fully inclusive Scout group for children with additional needs, and is now improving its service to accommodate a wider group of young people.

The funding of £2,400 provided through Manx Lottery Trust’s smaller grants programme will be used to deliver a two-day mental health course for 20 leaders.

The training will prepare the leaders to effectively work with children with more complex requirements, such as mental health issues, seizures and Asperger’s syndrome.

Island commissioner Guy Thompson said: ’It’s great to see so many young people with additional physical and mental health requirements getting involved with us, and the skills and experiences they get within the Scouts can make a huge difference to their lives.

’While this is very rewarding for our leaders, we need to make sure they are equipped with the skills and training needed.’

Manx Lottery Trust chairman Sarah Kelly added: ’It’s a real pleasure to be able to provide further support to The Scout Association.

’They do wonderful work and all the leaders are very committed to the work they do.’

The Scout Association works with more than 700 young people aged between six and 25 in the island. It aims to develop key skills that will benefit them now and in the future, as well as providing fun and adventure.

For more information visit www.scouts.im