Castlederg Youth Forum

Motivated by the overwhelming extent of sectarian violence in the area, Castlederg Youth Forum brings together Catholic and Protestant young people to promote understanding and improve relations between members of the different faiths. The programme of activities provides an opportunity to meet up and develop common bonds and answers another common complaint among young people that they felt there was nothing to do in their community.

The committee meets each fortnight to plan and promote a range of services from young parents’ programmes, games days and workshops on issues such as sexual health, social problems, drug and alcohol abuse and sexual awareness. Future plans for the group involve opening a ‘drop-in’ centre run by young people for all young people including ethnic minorities and immigrants located on neutral territory for easy access.

Leanne Humphrey, original member, 15, said: “The Youth Forum brings people together from both communities which is very much needed in our area due to the visible segregation. In the youth forum there are games nights - to midnight, training, drug and alcohol workshops, trips, sports nights, personal protection training, confidence building to name but a few – all in a neutral venue and an informal setting, and we have FUN and enjoy ourselves as well as learn new skills.”

The Philip Lawrence Awards
The Philip Lawrence Awards were established in 1996 in memory of head teacher, Philip Lawrence, who was tragically murdered whilst protecting a pupil outside his school. The Philip Lawrence Awards, now in its 11th year, has supported the positive work of over 1,000 young people across the UK since its launch.

Pop Star Lemar said: "The Philip Lawrence Awards help encourage young people from across the country who contribute to their local communities and lives of others. This award show gives out a positive message on how young people can mentor other young people - showing how youth can all work together. Peace."

Previous winners have brought together people from a diverse range of backgrounds tackling hard hitting issues such as bullying, racism, domestic violence and mental illness.

Judging
Projects are judged with the involvement of young people on five key themes for activities that help to:

— Combat lawlessness or violence
— Promote community safety
— Advance racial harmony
— Demonstrate good citizenship
— Support citizenship projects through school

New for 2007
The 2007 Philip Lawrence Awards will this year recognise projects with an international focus and those that promote understanding of difference faiths, cultures and communities.

Winners Announcement
Winners will be announced at an Awards ceremony to be hosted by Sir Trevor McDonald in central London on 4 December 2007. The annual event attracts a number of high profile celebrities from pop stars to politicians – all keen to support and encourage the worthy efforts of young people. Winning youth groups each receive £1,000 pounds to help support their project.

Notes to the Editor

• For further information, to arrange interviews or to attend the event, contact Julie Watkins on 020 7522 6928 / 0791 787 0641 or email julie.watkins@4Children.org.uk

• Over the last ten years, the Philip Lawrence Awards have supported over 1,000 young people who are actively initiating, developing and delivering programmes of work to enhance their lives and the lives of others, in particular to help combat violence, vandalism, bullying and racism.

• The Philip Lawrence Awards is the largest scheme of its kind and recognise outstanding achievement among young people aged 11–20.

• The Philip Lawrence Awards were established by the then Home Secretary, The Rt Hon Michael Howard MP, in 1996. The Awards recognise and reward the efforts and hard work of young people who have together overcome social problems and made valuable contributions to their communities.

• The scheme is largely funded by a grant from the Civil Renewal Unit of the Home Office. Sponsor organisations include the Youth Justice Board, Young People Now, News International and teachers’ union NASUWT, with support from University College London and the University of Arts, London.

• The Awards are open to young people aged 11–20 from across the UK. The scheme is managed by 4Children, the national charity that represents the needs of all children and young people and their families. See www.4Children.org.uk

• 4Children
4Children is the national charity dedicated to creating opportunities and building futures for all children. It aspires to ensure that all children, young people and families have access to a creative, safe and child focused environment, and activities. 4Children provides an information line for parents and children’s professionals with advice and support on all aspects of children, young people and families. See www.4Children.org.uk

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