More than 400 secondary schools in disadvantaged communities will receive support through the Government’s £22.5 million Enrichment Expansion Programme, widening access to activities including sport, music, debating, volunteering and outdoor learning.

The programme follows the State of the Nation survey of more than 14,000 young people, which highlighted demand for safe spaces, trusted adults and greater access to enriching activities.

Schools will work with Enrichment Coordinators to identify gaps and develop partnerships with local organisations, with the programme delivered by the Youth Sport Trust and national partners.

The investment forms part of the Youth Matters strategy, which aims to halve the participation gap in enrichment between disadvantaged young people and their peers by 2035.

Schools Minister Georgia Gould said the programme would help more young people access activities that “build confidence, spark ambition and open up opportunities for the future.”