Europe's biggest youth movement has received £1.3m from the Welsh Government to help it recover following the coronavirus pandemic.

The Urdd is one of Wales’ largest third sector employers, providing a wide range of Welsh-medium experiences and activities for young people aged eight to 25.

The Welsh Government said more than 60 additional staff will be employed to support communities, and the Urdd plans to create up to 300 new Welsh-medium apprenticeships over the next three years.

Minister for Mental Health, Wellbeing and Welsh Language, Eluned Morgan, said: “The Urdd has played a pivotal role in ensuring children and young people are able to take part in a wide range of social and sporting activities.

“We know how enriching this can be for them and we are grateful to the Urdd for making such a positive contribution to the social development and wellbeing of our children and young people. It has really helped them find their voice.

“This funding will help the Urdd recover and rebuild its provision. I look forward to the Urdd’s centenary next year, when we celebrate its achievements and look forward to another 100 years of the Urdd.”

During the ongoing health crisis, the Urdd has continued to provide services for young people, including providing services for vulnerable young people at its residential centre Llangrannog in Ceredigion.