The 2003 Award winners were:
CAN Group (Changing Attitudes Now), Yeovil Somerset CAN Group offers a supportive environment for people with mental health concerns, providing an activity or meeting every fortnight.
Castlehead High School’s Paired reading club, Paisley, Scotland
Through the Paired Reading Programme at Castlehead High School, senior students volunteer to help junior pupils with their reading. This programme has raised reading ages, helped with bullying issues, and also increased the confidence and self-esteem of the young people involved.
Hens Theatre Company, Billericay, Essex
Three young women from Essex took it upon themselves to educate fellow young people about stranger awareness through the medium of dramatic performance.
Kosovars in Barrow, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria
The Kosovars in Barrow came together to confront prejudices associated with racial diversity and the stigma surrounding refugees. Six young people from Kosovo wanted to break down barriers by bringing together a community that was not very familiar with different races.
Kotchin, Wood Green, London
Kotchin, a racially diverse group of young women and men, went about setting up a group specifically for young people and a space that they made their own. The project has successfully opened channels between different communities and encouraged young people not to carry weapons for protection.
Muslim helpline, Wembley, Middlesex
Set up in August 2001, the Muslim Youth Helpline responds to social, often unique, issues affecting young Muslims today. Trained counsellors volunteer their time three days a week to offer a counselling service.
Making a Difference, Manor Park, Sheffield
Antisocial behaviour in Manor Park, Sheffield, had driven young people and older residents to breaking point.
The purpose of “Making a Difference” is to give young people a voice, share skills and develop the area for themselves, future residents and future generations.
Oi Magazine, New Cross, London
Oi! Magazine was born when Deptford Green School and Deptford Youth Forum began a joint initiative in May 2002, to develop a forum where young people could express their concerns and discuss issues relevant to them and the community. It has been established as a valued publication in the New Cross-area of London .
