Two of Gwynedd Council’s Youth Service workers have been shortlisted for a national award recognising their dedication and service.
Gwynedd Council’s Elwyn Jones and Janice Roberts will attend the prestigious Youth Work in Wales Excellence Awards 2010 held in Cardiff. The Wales-wide awards recognises the hard work, innovation and dedication shown by youth workers and projects that are making a real difference in communities across Wales.
Elwyn Jones started off his work in youth services some 20 years ago, working on a part-time basis at his local youth club in Rhiwlas, near Bangor. He then went on to work in Holyhead, before moving to Caernarfon in 1994. He now works with youth club leaders across the county to develop the services provided for Gwynedd’s young people.
“It was particularly pleasing that someone had thought to put my name forward. I really enjoy my work and it’s a real bonus that people thought that it was worth nominating me for the awards,” said Elwyn.
“I’ve always been interested in serving people, and as a former teacher working with children and young people has been something I’ve always been committed to. Although I don’t work directly with young people as much these days, I still work with young youth club leaders and try to ensure that Gwynedd’s young people have an enjoyable time in the county’s youth clubs.”
After 28 years working at Caernarfon Youth Club, Janice Roberts who has been the club’s leader for the past nine years is about to retire. When she got the call to tell her she’d been nominated she thought someone was pulling her leg.
“I thought it was a joke at first, but when I realised that they were serious I was really proud.
“I’ve had a fantastic time working at Caernarfon Youth Club, and seeing the young people develop over the years. A lot of the young people who now work at the club used to be members, so it’s been wonderful to see their journey and develop into young adults.
“I think that being nominated is a great reflection on the club and all the young people who have been involved with the club – it’s them who make the club after all.”
Councillor Roy Owen, who leads on youth service matter for Gwynedd Council added: “As a county, we are proud that we have some of the most committed and dedicated youth workers. Their enthusiasm is a real example, and I know that their continued efforts help provide new and exciting projects for young people in communities across Gwynedd.
“I am absolutely delighted that the efforts of Elwyn and Janice have been recognised by the national awards and wish them all the very best luck at the ceremony.”
Both Elwyn and Janice have also been instrumental in the opening of independent Cwmni Ifanc Ty’r Ysgol in Caernarfon which is a centre where young people to go for discussions, advice and support on any problems which may be of concern to them. The centre which includes directors from amongst the area’s young people is an innovative idea.
Elwyn said: “Young people have a tremendous amount of energy and enthusiasm for their own communities. When they are given responsibility, they react positively and work very hard to deliver success.
“The sad fact is that it’s the bad news stories about young people which tend to make the front pages and headlines across the county. It’s about time that we celebrate our young people and give them the praise they so richly deserve.”
