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High Sheriff of Northumberland announces fund re-opening

The High Sheriff of Northumberland’s Award has opened for a single application round this year. The award rewards youth organisations that encourage and provide positive pursuits for young people, providing them with role models and helping them to develop into upstanding citizens.

The Fund makes awards to organisations based in Northumberland that engage young people aged 10 to 25 in constructive and developmental activities that encourage their personal development and deter them from anti-social activities.

The High Sheriff of Northumberland, Joanna Riddell said:

“I am delighted the fund is now open for applications to The High Sheriff of Northumberland’s Awards. I am looking forward to engaging with the many wonderful organisations in our county who are working with young people in different spheres to give their support, encouragement and knowledge. Whether that be through creative and cultural pursuits, the arts, sport or community-based activities, this fund recognises organisations which further the development of young people”.

Michelle Hardie, Philanthropy Advisor and Fund Manager for the High Sheriff of Northumberland Award, explained that the Fund was building on the success of the previous year:

“We were delighted to give out 44 awards last year, to a range of organisations across Northumberland. This was particularly impressive given what a difficult year it’s been with the impact of Covid-19.

“This year the Fund is open earlier and for longer, allowing organisations more time to submit their applications. We encourage all organisations who are thinking of applying to read the fund criteria beforehand”.

Last year, three organisations were given special awards to recognise the outstanding contribution they had made. The winner of ‘Best Group’ was Bad Apples North East, who offer music, dance arts and diversionary activities for young people across Northumberland.

Caroline Ball, Director at Bad Apples North East spoke of their pleasure at winning:

“It was a huge honour for Bad Apples North East to win “Best Group” at the Northumberland High Sheriff awards. 2020 was not the usual year for anyone but the High Sheriff still engaged with organisations via Zoom and offered help, support and encouragement during what was quite a year for many organisations.

As for the difference the award made, she added:

“We are planning on using the award towards the set-up of a new base in Ashington where we will deliver support and activities for young people.”

Organisations applying for the award should be aware that there is just one application window this year. The deadline for applications is Friday 10 September 2021. You can apply via the Community Foundation Tyne & Wear and Northumberland’s website.

Organisations in Tyne & Wear can apply to the Tyne & Wear High Sheriff’s Award which will be opening in September.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ali Walker .