THE South Eastern Health Trust is helping young people in care build brighter futures through the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, with one staff member representing the organisation at a prestigious celebration marking the programme’s 70th anniversary.
Mandy Morrison, the Trust’s Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award Manager, attended the Gold Award Celebration in the gardens of the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, where young people from across the UK were recognised for achieving the scheme’s highest honour.
The South Eastern Trust was the first Health and Social Care Trust in Northern Ireland to become a licensed Duke of Edinburgh’s Award organisation, enabling young people with care experience to work towards Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards while developing confidence, resilience and valuable life skills.
Representing the Trust, Mandy, who is part of the Residential Support and Engagement Team, said she was inspired by the achievements of those receiving their Gold Awards.
“It was a real privilege to represent the South Eastern Trust at such a special event during the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award 70th anniversary year. Seeing so many young people celebrated for achieving their Gold Award was incredibly inspiring.
“The commitment, resilience and determination shown by every participant was truly remarkable and it reinforced just how life changing the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award can be.
“I am incredibly proud that the South Eastern Trust was the first Health and Social Care Trust in Northern Ireland to offer the Award to young people with care experience. We have seen first-hand the positive difference it can make, helping young people develop confidence, resilience, independence and valuable life skills.
“My hope is that one day many more of our own young people will achieve their Gold Award and experience the same sense of pride and accomplishment. They have enormous potential and this programme gives them the opportunity to discover what they are capable of achieving.”
