Forest Youth Awards

Forest Youth Awards

In the Forest of Dean there is a wealth of committed young people who give their time voluntarily for the benefit of others. We want to acknowledge and celebrate this fact. Therefore, in 2007 an awards scheme was set up to recognise the achievements of local young people.

This Awards scheme has been designed to promote and reward positive community action or volunteering by young people in the Forest. We want to encourage young people between 11 and 16 years to engage with their community and recognise the part they have to play in the present and future development of the area. We want to raise self-esteem of young people increase the levels of community involvement. We think this will improve social behaviour and give opportunity to tell good news stories about the commitment of Forest young people.

Individuals, local residents, street wardens, and schools or sports and youth organisations can nominate young people for the awards. Details of their activities will be discussed and awards designated by a nominated awards team that will involve young people in the decision-making about their peers and the level of awards to be given.

This award will be given to young people who have given their time, enthusiasm and energy to help other people in the community. We would also like to know how much impact their work had and if they have had to overcome any barriers to achieve this.

All nominees must have taken part in volunteering that benefits the community of the Forest of Dean. Examples might be: Helping to coach after school clubs, cutting lawns, shopping, dog walking for people who are unable to do it themselves, litter picking a beauty spot , organising an event. or raising money for charity, being a young leader within a community group, giving time to Youth Forums, plus lots of other voluntary activities.

Nominations have now closed for 2009 but will reopen in the early summer of 2010. More details will be available in 2010.