Community Challenge

Formed in 2002, Community Challenge waged war on graffiti, vandalism, rubbish and anti-social behaviour on the estate – issues which were fuelling high levels of anxiety among residents. It successfully lobbied the community forum for better ‘out of school’ play provision and improved conditions on the estate via a ‘good, the bad and the ugly photographic audit of the estate.’

As a result, young residents now have access to a flood lit, 5-a-side, outdoor play facility outside school hours, enjoy improved street lighting, have more bins on the estate and successfully arranged for the removal of graffiti from around the estate. Community Challenge continues to support young people each week through projects including literacy buddying work with juniors at risk and healthy activities such as ‘Recycle Cycles’.

Community Challenge Member, Mark Morton, said: “I got into college because of my portfolio and what I’d done. They were really impressed.”

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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