THE TD1 youth project based in Galashiels has been nominated for the National Youth Work Awards for their work with young people.
Celebrating 10 years of high-quality community-based youth work in 2023, TD1 Youth Hub is at the heart of the Galashiels community.
A dedicated team of 15 staff offers vital local services, including open door drop ins, detached street work, primary school to transitions support and its Early Steps young parents’ group.
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Effective community-based youth work, however, demands heightened awareness of local issues and the agility to respond to changing needs.
Responding to the cost-of-living crisis, TD1 has provided 3000 meals to young people, and through its youth work and schools partnership with Galashiels Academy is currently engaging with 70% of school students directly impacted by poverty and financial deprivation.
Their greatest achievement, however, is that they are trusted. Three out of four young people at TD1 have been engaged for more than three years - illustrating the value of long-term relationship in trusted community-based youth work organisations.
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Youngster Chloe Fowler said: “The most important thing about TD1 is that no matter what age I was, no matter what circumstances I was in, there was someone in TD1 who supported me, listened to me, guided me.
“I know that they have done this for thousands of young people over the last 10 years in Galashiels.”
The project have been nominated for the Community-based Youth Work Project of the Year.
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These awards are a true celebration of our unstinting belief in our young people. Right across the country in clubs and organisations, on the streets and in the great outdoors, youth workers give of their time to help young people achieve their potential and be all they can be.
The Awards will take place on Wednesday 21st June in Glasgow hosted by BBC Presenter, Gemma Cairney.
Commenting, Tim Frew, Chief Executive of YouthLink Scotland, said: “As the cost of living crisis deepens with more young people facing barriers to learning and work, it is our country’s youth workers who make a real difference to lives of so many young people.
“We want to celebrate the often unseen heroes who make such a difference to our communities.”
Sponsors Education Scotland and the Scottish Community Safety Network explained why they are supporting the nation’s youth workers:
A spokesperson said: “The evidence shows that good quality youth work practice can enhance young people's social, emotional and physical wellbeing, and support them to attain, achieve and contribute effectively in their communities.”
A spokesperson for Scottish Community Safety Network added: “Youth work helps create communities. It gives young folk voice and the chance to share; to listen; to be understood; to hear and find others. But it’s hard making that happen, building community. Navigating tensions and hurt, and maybe some damage and prejudices too is a skill. And it might not always perfect, but it’s such a positive, hopeful thing. It’s a model for us all.”
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