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Four long-standing volunteers at the Blaenau Gwent and Caerphilly Youth Offending Service have received High Sheriff of Gwent awards for their efforts.

John Hooper, who has been a community volunteer for 20 years, was among those to receive an award.

Julie Thomas, who has volunteered for 15 years, also received an award, as did Lesley John after 12 years of service and Natalie Sargent after ten years.

All four volunteers were nominated for showing dedication to working with children and families and showing compassion, empathy and fairness while making sure children’s voices are heard.

They were presented with their awards by Malgwyn Davies, in one of his last acts as High Sheriff of Gwent before his one-year term came to an end. He has since been replaced in the role by Professor Simon Gibson.

Caerphilly Council’s cabinet member for social care, Cllr Elaine Forehead, and her Blaenau Gwent Council counterpart Haydn Trollope, said: “We are really pleased that these volunteers are being recognised and awarded for their long-standing commitment to the Youth Offending Service.

“Congratulations to all four volunteers for receiving these awards, it is a well-deserved achievement.”

What is the Youth Offending Service?

The Blaenau Gwent and Caerphilly Youth Offending Service works with those aged between eight and 17-years-old who are at risk of, or involved in, antisocial or offending behaviour. 

The service is made up of staff from a wide range of organisations, including the local authority, police, probation, health and education services.

The aim of the service is to help children and young people make better life choices and reduce offending.

Visit the council’s website for more information on the Youth Offending Service.