Youngsters could win £2,000 for ideas that make a change
Inspiring projects that better lives or the environment in Telford and Wrekin are wanted for the Make a Change competition launching today (Tuesday 6 February).
Make a Change seeks to empower young people, 11-18, to make a real impact where they live, either by improving the physical or mental health of residents or making the borough cleaner or greener.
Teams with the best five ideas will bag £2,000 each to make their idea happen, plus a host of other exciting prizes.
The competition is run by Telford & Wrekin Council, in partnership with the Young People’s Forum, and is part of the Safer & Stronger Communities project funded in part by the West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner and the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Councillor Kelly Middleton (Lab) Cabinet Member for Healthy, Safer & Stronger Communities and Partnerships said:
“I’m thrilled we have launched Make a Change for a second year. The competition is all about inspiring young people to work together to deliver positive changes in their community.
“It’s a fantastic platform for them to raise awareness of something they feel passionate about. It will also look great on their CV and build their confidence.”
West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner, John Campion, said:
“Young people are often the most vulnerable in our society and it is important they are being given the opportunity to take a more positive direction in their life.
“This project is going to not only benefit the young people taking part but the community too and I look forward to seeing what creative ideas young people have.”
The closing date for applications is Friday 3 May 2024. Winners will be invited to an awards celebration in June.
Make a Change launched in 2023 and among winning ideas was one put forward by Dawley Youth Club to set up a mental health project with the support of Telford Mind.
Hayden Banks-Morgan, aged 13, was one of the young people involved.
“I’m more confident because of the mental health group. I have less social anxiety and now I can talk to new people.
“Make a Change could benefit other children, so I definitely think they should apply.”
For more information about Make a Change and to apply online visit www.telford.gov.uk/makeachange or email saferstronger@telford.gov.uk
Photo: Councillor Kelly Middleton (Lab) Cabinet Member for Healthy, Safer & Stronger Communities and Partnerships with Hayden Banks-Morgan from Dawley Youth Club, one of last year's Make a Change winners.
