‘Great passion’ in Fenland Youth Work Network and Fenland Youth Tribe sees Cambridgeshire County Council awarded at Local Government Chronicle Awards

The county council has been praised for its work on two Fenland youth projects.

More than 1,400 authorities from across the nation came together on Wednesday at the Grosvenor House in London for this year’s Local Government Chronicle Awards.

The county council took the top spot for community involvement after it displayed “clear evidence” of making a difference to lives and future opportunities through both the Fenland Youth Work Network and Fenland Youth Tribe.

The judges said the projects, which support young people at risk of serious violence, exploitation and county lines involvement, have “great passion and energy”.

“It’s great to see youth work activity coming back post-Covid-19, clear evidence of making a difference to lives and future opportunities,” they said.

“Use of TikTok is brave but working, great solution-focused attitude, good partnership and links to Community Safety Partnership.

“Hope to see it last for a long, long time.”

The judges also recognised Coach Cody Pearman for his support.

Cllr Lucy Nethsingha, the leader of the council, said: “To have won this award is a powerful endorsement of the innovation and commitment shown by our staff and partners, and it reflects the drive across the council to deliver a greener, fairer and more caring Cambridgeshire.

“I’m extremely proud that Cambridgeshire County Council has been recognised for its outstanding work in this important area, and I’d like to say a huge well done to everyone involved.”

Dr Stephen Moir, the council’s chief executive, was delighted about the recognition.

“This win reflects the passion and dedication of our people and serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of working closely with communities to make a real difference,” he said.

The chair of the Fenland Community Safety Partnership, Cllr Susan Wallwork, added: “The Community Safety Partnership is proud to support the incredible work of Fenland Youth Work Network and Fenland Youth Tribe.

“This success is down to working in collaboration to secure funding and, most specifically, the incredible passion, dedication and innovation of all involved.

“This approach works because of joint working between Fenland District Council, Cambridgeshire Police, Cambridgeshire County Council and the amazing voluntary sector youth work partners.”