Shropshire youth charity nominated for prestigous award
A charity that provides youth services across Shropshire has been nominated for a prestigious award.
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The Shropshire Youth Association (SYA), which supports more than 9,000 young people by providing activities and training for youth workers, has been shortlisted for the 'Charity of the Year' award in the Children of Courage Awards.
The charity, based in Shrewsbury, also operates 32 youth clubs in the region including bespoke clubs for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and those who are part of the LGBTQAI+ community.
The awards, organised by the St James’s Place Charitable Foundation, recognise and celebrate some of the most inspirational children in the region and the charities who support them.
Community engagement and fundraising manager at SYA, Claire Purcell, said the nomination was testament to the dedication of the charity's qualified and experienced youth workers and volunteers.
She said: “We work with over 9,000 young people, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), through a wide network of clubs and groups either run or supported by SYA.
"The clubs offer an array of physical and sports activities, along with educational sessions covering topics such as sexual health, anxiety, practical skills, alcohol awareness and peer support.
"We also work with schools and external agencies to provide initiatives like Young Leaders, UK Youth Parliament, early-intervention mental health sessions known as Time2Talk, and specialist groups for young people who are part of the LGBTQI+ community.
"The overall aim is to give young people access to quality, affordable activities which allow them to thrive, succeed and fulfil their potential.
"We are delighted to have been nominated for a Children of Courage Award, which gives our staff and volunteers the recognition they deserve for the dedication they have shown in supporting Shropshire’s young people and literally changing lives."
Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at The National Conference Centre in Birmingham on February 28.
Committee member for the St James’s Place Charitable Foundation, Greg Palethorpe added: "We are looking forward to 'The Greatest Show' on February 28, the Children of Courage Awards Birmingham 2025.
"The night will be full of music, dancing, celebration, and importantly we will be recognising some of the most inspiring and amazing young people and charitable organisations in our region, all in aid of the St James’s Place Charitable Foundation.
"Congratulations to SYA for being a finalist. We can’t wait to see you on the night!"
