THE Mayor of Warrington and senior council figures honoured dozens of volunteers, learners and mentors at a packed event at Orford Jubilee Neighbourhood Hub.
Certificates were handed out and stories told about how the council’s Brighter Futures team had provided people with training, helped them into work or apprenticeships, or helped them to secure voluntary work placements.
Two of Brighter Futures’ learners and volunteers who had achieved success during the past 12 months made speeches at the event.
Julie, aged 22, a single mother of one who is now some months into an apprenticeship in business and administration with a major local organisation, said: “I work hard and I’m hoping for future employment with the company, but if that doesn’t work out, I’m not worried. I’m confident I will be able to find employment again thanks to the help and advice I received from the Brighter Futures team.
“I can’t thank the team enough for everything they have done for me and my son, and I will be eternally grateful for all of their support.”
April, aged 23, a mother of two who earned a CVQ (Community Volunteer Qualification) and is currently serving as a business and administration apprentice with Warrington Borough Council, said: “During the last 6 months, since starting my apprenticeship, my life has changed for the better. I feel the happiest I have been in a long time. My friends and family say the transformation has been phenomenal. The impact my learning and volunteering journey has had on me and my family has been extraordinary and long-term. I am determined to carry on progressing and hopefully secure myself a permanent job.”
During the last year Brighter Futures has supported:
- 155 adult volunteers.
- 52 youth volunteers.
- 82 “learning champions”.
- 23 mentors.
- 33 members of the Xpand group.
- 48 people helped under the European Social Fund.
- 5 community groups.
- 4 parent forums.
And in the last year Brighter Futures has provided training to a total of 184 people on a wide range of subjects including safeguarding, equality and diversity, suicide prevention, first aid, health and safety and employability.
Senior council figures attending the event included Kath O’Dwyer, director of families and wellbeing, who commented: “It was so inspiring to hear the stories of how people have moved their lives on, and to hear about what they have achieved. All deserve sincere congratulations. My thanks also go to all the volunteers and mentors and the community groups who work hard alongside colleagues from the council as they have really helped people change their lives for the better.”
