Hillingdon Young Volunteers Award launched

A new initiative that supports young people to develop vocational and social skills through volunteering in the community has been launched by Hillingdon Council. The Hillingdon Young Volunteers Award, in partnership with local charity Uxbridge United Welfare Trusts, will offer young people in the borough the opportunity to learn new skills and gain work experience whilst supporting the local community. The one year pilot project will initially be delivered in Uxbridge, Ickenham, and Harefield, with up to 125 volunteer placements available for young people aged between 11 and 19. Group-based volunteering activities will be on offer for those who are aged 11 to 15, while 16 to 19-year-olds will be offered placements relevant to their personal interests and career aspirations. Young people who complete 50, 100, and 200 hours of volunteering will receive certificates of achievement that will support their applications for future employment, education, and training. Cllr David Simmonds, Cabinet Member for Education and Children’s Services, said: “The Hillingdon Young Volunteers award is an exciting initiative which will create new opportunities for our young people to play an important role as volunteers in the borough. “I hope to see as many young people as possible grasp the opportunity to learn a new skill, boost their employment credentials and give something back to the community.” Young people and agencies interested in offering placements can find out more by contacting Sylvester Swanston, Award Coordinator, on 01895 556721 or 07908 059538, or by emailing SSwanston@hillingdon.gov.uk. Further information about the award can be found on young.hillingdon.gov.uk. Picture courtesy of LGA