Kids are just champion at helping each other

The group of seven to 19-year-olds are members of the Youth Hub, which meets at Dawdon Community Centre and brings together around 200 young residents.

A core of around a dozen members have been recognised with a citizenship award for their good deeds, from their work with others to overcoming their own issues.

Part of their efforts have focused on setting up a network of support to reach out to children with depression, those who ave suffered at the hands of bullies, have turned to self-harm or are battling self-esteem issues.

In one case, their work helped avert one young person from taking their own life.

Other work has seen them support a project which raises thousands of pounds to cover the cost of holiday activities for disadvantaged children, take first aid courses, run a tuck shop and support a cafe.

They have also given their peers a chance to express their concerns and push for change through a youth forum.

Joanne Bowen, who leads the club, said: “The awards came as a response to the negativity that can sometimes surround young people.
“Through the citizenship awards we were able to show our community that young people are truly amazing.

“Their good deeds should be cherished in enabling them to become responsible citizens within our society as adults.

“The young people are brilliant and it’s been wonderful seeing their confidence grow and through their work as mentors they’ve helped represent others and give them a voice.

“They’ve looked at anti-social behaviour, drinking alcohol and looked at peer pressure and this is helping to keep people off the streets and take pride in the area.”

The hub grew out of Dawdon Adventure Club and is backed by the Big Lottery Fund.