Thanks to Suzanne and Alan for this report from the awards presentation. Ed
Nick Hayward, the Island’s High Sheriff presented certificates to 14 young people under the scheme that bears the High Sheriff’s title.
He explained that the High Sheriff’s awards were originally the brainchild of Gaye Edwards when she held the post of High Sheriff. This year saw a record number of 24 nominations from both the voluntary and statutory organisations that work with children and young people on the Island.
Achieved in spite of adversity
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.
Extraordinary degrees of determination shown
In his opening remarks The High Sheriff spoke of his high regard for all of the nominees who had shown extraordinary degrees of determination, self belief and generosity to turn their lives around, following various setbacks during their early years.
He thanked his wife Nicky and Martin Poynter for their help with all the nominations.
Turned their lives around
Several of the recipients had seen parental bereavements. Others had had serious illnesses, looked after parents as young carers or been unable to cope with regular school attendance. All had turned their lives around in some way.
Proud parents, carers and nominators were in the audience at the ceremony held at Quay Arts, Newport to listen to the citations and congratulate the winners.
