Young people recognised by South Yorkshire police chiefs

The Inspiring Youth Project awards at the Mercure Sheffield St Paul’s Hotel recognised the work of hundreds of young people.

Working with a South Yorkshire Police volunteer mentor, youngsters worked on projects to boost their self esteem and achieve personal goals.

Chief Constable David Crompton said: “These awards celebrate outstanding young people who have demonstrated the desire to achieve personal goals.

“It was an honour to present the special recognition awards and to hear about all the exceptional work across Rotherham and Sheffield.

“I am incredibly proud to be part of such a valuable project that really does change people’s lives.

“Thank you to everyone involved especially the inspirational young people.”

Over 1,000 young people took part and those who scored highest on their portfolios they created about their achievements were invited to the awards along with parents.

All participants received a certificate and there were a number of individual special recognition awards.

Sofia Sajid, aged 15, from Sheffield Park Academy, was the overall winner for her work on a number of community projects including a scheme to encourage young people to read.

The scheme was launched in 2005 by a group of police officers and volunteers who wanted to provide positive role models for young people from hard to reach backgrounds.

The aim was to give young people a sense of achievement, improve their self-esteem and deter them from anti-social behaviour.

To date, around 10,000 young people have taken part in the scheme which is run in 15 secondary schools.