Press release:

The Philip Lawrence Awards were launched today, in its tenth anniversary year. The Awards were set up in memory of the head teacher Philip Lawrence and celebrate outstanding citizenship by groups of young people aged 11 to 20 from across the UK.

Frances Lawrence visited Sheffield at the invitation of Rt Hon David Blunkett MP, to launch the 2006 nominations for the Awards, organised by charity 4Children. There, Frances met with past winners and other young people from the Manor, Sheffield.

The Awards recognise projects that help promote community safety and counter crime, violence and racism. It is the largest such scheme run with the active involvement of young people in its judging and delivery.

Previous winning groups have brought together young people from a diverse range of backgrounds tackling important issues such as bullying, self-harming, racialism, domestic violence, mental illness and improving environments for young people with disabilities. This year, for the first time, the Awards are looking to also recognise outstanding projects that include international work, to promote respect and global understanding of faiths, cultures and communities.

Frances Lawrence, founder of the awards said: “The standard of entries from amazing young people around the country never fails to impress me. They are truly inspiring. I hope 2006 will see more young people that ever before coming forward to receive the recognition they deserve.”

Winning groups will receive £1000 to help support their project as well taking part in what always proves to be a superb awards ceremony in London. For a nomination form call 020 7512 2100 or visit www.philiplawrenceawards.org.uk

The closing date for entries is 15 September 2006.

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