A new youth awards ceremony has been held for the first time in Warminster, celebrating the achievements of local young people and recognising those who support them.
The Inspire Youth Awards were launched by Warminster Youth Club and took place on Tuesday 21st October at Kingdown School. 12 awards were presented to young people, organisations and adults making a positive difference in the town.
Award categories for the young people included the Young Person SEN Award, won by Ronnie Milham; the Young Team Award, won by the Masqueraders; the Young Volunteer Award, won by Eleanor Thornton; the Inspirational Young Person Award, won by Amelie Budd; the Young Progress Award, won by Josh Bligdon; the Young Carer Award, won by Leo Saltford; and the Young Leader Award, won by Freddie Evans.
Adults and organisations were also recognised for supporting young people in the town. SCRAN, the event’s sponsor, gave an award to the Wiltshire Area Youth Service Team, who organised the ceremony. Other groups honoured included Connect Wiltshire, a free drug and alcohol service led by Turning Point, the Kingdown Safeguarding Team and the Athenaeum Masqueraders.
“I’ve done youth work for the last eight years, and I do work with some incredible young people, and some incredible adults, because every young person needs an incredible adult,” said Beth Mullins from Wiltshire Area Youth Service, which runs Warminster Youth Club.
“Being part of these young people’s journey and seeing the way they look up to and trust the professionals around them, and the huge difference they make in an unsupported sector, was what created the Inspire Youth Awards,” Beth said. “It’s so nice to bring everyone together and acknowledge both the adults and young people.”
Dan Hatcher, safeguarding lead at Kingdown School, won the Outstanding Recognition Award, the final award of the night. His nomination was kept a secret and he was surprised with a compilation of videos from colleagues, students and family members highlighting his contribution.
“I didn’t realise this was about me, to be honest, because it is about you guys. I wouldn’t be able to do the work I do without external agency support and the amazing students that have won awards or been nominated,” he said. “I really, really do appreciate this award.”
