Ilex and WHSCT are recognised

Ilex was commended for “Children & Young People first - The one plan for Derry/Londonderry” and the Western Trust for “On Trial - Promoting young people’s participation” and the “16+ Pathway team - Summer Activity Programme.”

Emma Hegarty and Nikita Harkin were amongst those who judged the awards for Government Departments and public bodies involving children and young people in the planning and the decisions that affect their lives.

Ilex and the Western Trust’s applications were amongst 24 received from a range of government departments and public bodies.

Aideen McGinley, Ilex’s Chief Executive said: “We are delighted to receive this commendation which recognises our extensive consultation with children and young people throughout the regeneration planning process. Children and young people are the focus of the One Plan and it is vital that it reflects their views and priorities. Congratulations also to the Western Health and Social Care Trust on receiving a commendation for their 16+ Pathway Team project”.

Clionagh Boyle, Early Years added: “We were delighted with the level of engagement from our youngest citizens in shaping the One Plan.

“Children and young people responded in greater numbers than any other citizen group, contributing creative, intelligent and practical ideas to the process. Our obligation now is to honour our commitments to children and young people and to ensure that a high level of communication, engagement and accountability is sustained.”

The Commissioner, Patricia Lewsley-Mooney, in paying tribute to every entry, commented on the work of the young people who worked for the past eight months to develop the awards format, and to judge all 24 entries.

“All eight young people displayed incredible commitment and attention in developing these awards,” she said. “While my legislation clearly says that I must listen to young people I am delighted that so many organisations have embedded participation with children and young people in their work.”