Award winning youths overcome adversity

Two former residents of a scheme for young homeless people in Eastwood had their achievements celebrated at a local awards ceremony.

Ashlyn Muir, 18, and Bethany Pockett, 18, who lived at Stepping Stones for over a year, each won an award for Overcoming Adversity at the Broxtowe Young People’s Awards.

The annual awards hosted by the Broxtowe Youth Council recognise achievements among the area's youngsters.
Ashlyn and Bethany were nominated by Stepping Stones Project Manager Jo Ball for the way they managed to turn their lives around while at the scheme.

Stepping Stones, run by LHA Support Services, provides accommodation and support for homeless young people, aged 16-25. Through on-site training, advice and support, it helps young people gain the confidence and skills they need to live more independently in the future.

Jo Ball said: “Both Ashlyn and Bethany should feel very proud. They came to Stepping Stones from very difficult backgrounds and I’m so impressed with their determination.

“They have successfully moved on to their own homes now which is lovely to see, and they are using their experiences in a positive way to help others. Ashlyn and Bethany are very deserving winners of this award.”

While at Stepping Stones, the duo joined the Browtowe Youth Homelessness’ ‘Peer Educators’ programme which aims to prevent youth homelessness. They now act as mentors visiting schools around Nottinghamshire to share their experiences and offer advice to other teenagers.

Through training for the programme, they have also achieved a nationally recognised qualification (NOCN), as well as learning new skills, building confidence and gaining valuable work experience.

The Mayor of Eastwood, Councillor Keith Longdon attended an open evening at Stepping Stones to congratulate the pair on their success.

The event was organised to raise the profile of Stepping Stones within the community and enable local residents to meet the young people and hear their personal stories of homelessness.

Stepping Stones work alongside numerous partner agencies who also attended the event including Connexions, Nottinghamshire Youth Service, Broxtowe Youth Homelessness, Face-it, Hilltop Church and St Andrew's Church.

A raffle was held with prizes donated by local businesses including a bike from Raleigh, a Laura Ashley hamper and jewellery.

Jo Ball added: “The open evening was a huge success and Stepping Stones would like to thank their local community for their time support.”

LHA Support Services is part of the LHA-ASRA Group.