Thanks to Suzanne and Alan for this report from the awards ceremony. Ed
Mary Case, the Island’s High Sheriff, presented certificates to 12 young people under the scheme that bears the High Sheriff’s title, as well as special awards to a group of young people from the ‘Cup and Saucer’ project which is supported by the Isle of Wight Council. Mary thanked Ian Ward, Chairman of IW Council, for the Council’s support.
Numbers of nominations from both the voluntary and statutory organisations that work with children and young people on the Island had been received and those short-listed had been invited, together with parents and supporters to the ceremony held at Quay Arts, Newport.
Achieving against the odds
All the awards are for a child or young person who has achieved in spite of adversity. These certificates are intended to celebrate the invaluable role children and young people play in the Island community and aim to recognise someone who has overcome significant difficulties in their life, or has participated in an activity which has had a positive impact on their own or another person’s life.
This scheme aims to encourage attendance at school and direct those who are vulnerable away from crime, anti-social behaviour, substance misuse or unsuitable activities.
After welcoming everyone to the event Mary congratulated all of those receiving awards and read out their nominations which explained their great achievements.
Turning their lives around
Several of the recipients had seen parental or close family bereavements. Others had had serious illnesses, been in trouble with the police or had achieved at school despite set-backs. All had turned their lives around in some way.
Several of the recipients had been nominated by staff at Atkinson House where they had learned to change their lives for the better: Dani is undertaking a Beauty Therapy course at IW College, Jake had overcome difficulties after family bereavements, Ryan had learned to re-build relationships, whilst Clare had learned DIY skills.
James had learned to sail and with the aid of a specially adapted boat hopes to take part in sailing regattas, Daniel had taken up golf and was doing well at school and Ricky was attending the Military Preparation College.
Natalie had achieved at school and is now undertaking a Pathway Course at IW College. She had been a Guide and had now progressed to Rangers the Senior Section of Girlguiding where she undertakes projects with the other Rangers in helping the community.
Roy had completed a Fire Service course, Scarlett had gained self confidence after attending St. Catherine’s and Jade is helping to fund raise for the Dream Flight charity after her own experience with Dream Flight. Despite a close family bereavement and a home move Becky had gained 5 A* passes at GCSE and was now in 6th Form.
Proud parents, carers and nominators were in the audience at the ceremony to listen to the citations and congratulate the winners.
Image: © Suzanne Whitewood
