On Wednesday 3rd June, Middlesbrough based Social Enterprise, Just 4 Youth took on competition from four youth focused organisations from across the country, to lift the “Investing in Young People” award at the Homes & Communities Academy Awards 2009 held in London. The government's national award scheme for sustainable communities was looking for a programme which has invested in, supported and inspired young people to take an active role in their local community and Just 4 Youth’s work with young people in Middlesbrough and further afield was just what they were looking for.
In their assessment of Just 4 Youth, the panel of judges said, “The skills and knowledge the young leaders display are put to good effect as they draw in and support young people in considering and addressing issues pertinent to them.” Professor David Lambert, chair of the judges, added, “Working across a wide age range and wide project range, Just 4 Youth breaks down some of the barriers that exist around understanding and providing for the needs of young people, in particular those in more deprived areas.”
Jan Sinclair, Chief Executive of West Middlesbrough Neighbourhood Trust, Just 4 Youth’s parent company commented, “We are delighted that once again, the achievements of Just 4 Youth have been recognised at a national level. Since Just 4 Youth begin its work, back in 2004 as part of WMNT’s youth development team, we have known that we have something special here – both in our youth led model of delivery, and in the attitude and enthusiasm of our young people – but it is great to see this confirmed by others. Through this national award, we look forward to further promoting the innovative work by young people in Middlesbrough, and working closely with Middlesbrough Borough Council to support Mayor Mallon’s Youth Agenda.”
Kevin Franks, Operations Director at Just 4 Youth, sums up what Just 4 Youth is all about –“Our youth led model inspires other young people to take charge and make a positive contribution. In many ways, we see young people as the solution, rather than the problem and we work towards their long term safety and security through social inclusion rather than exclusion. While what we do is in many ways unique, we believe that any young person, even those so often classed as “hard to reach”, can achieve their potential if they are given the right opportunities and support. “
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