Local Reading charity “highly commended” in Kids Count Awards at House of Commons ceremony
16th May 2012
The Reading TLG centre (formerly known as The Lighthouse Group) were “Highly Commended” in the category of the “Members of Parliament Special Award for the Best Contribution by a Community Group” at the Kids Count Awards held at the House of Commons on 8th May.
Alok Sharma, the Member of Parliament for Reading West, nominated the charity for the award and was present for the awards ceremony. Making a speech at the ceremony Alok praised the Reading TLG Centre for the work the charity does to get young people excluded from school back into education, training or employment.
Speaking after the event Alok said: “The Kids Count Awards are a wonderful initiative and I am absolutely delighted that TLG have been highly commended for their contribution to youth issues. This recognition is a testament to the great work that TLG do with young people, many of whom have been victims of family breakdown, bereavement, crime, abuse and poverty.”
The Reading TLG centre head teacher Quentin Gunderson said: “I was thrilled to be able to attend Westminster Palace with my colleagues and some young people. They were absolutely inspired by the event and it has been a huge boost to them as individuals. Reading community church who oversee our school are demonstrating that groups such as themselves through committed staff and volunteers can really make a difference to our communities.”
Kids Count Chairman, Richard Stephenson, said: “I’m delighted to be part of these Awards which recognise the effort of groups such as TLG who are making a real difference to the lives of young people. I am very proud to be part of an organisation that not only brings young people to the heart of decision making in Westminster, but that also aims to recognise their contribution to society through these Inspiration Awards.”
Photo: Matt (Student), Rebecca Hulme (Learning Mentor), Steve Rocker (Volunteer), Quentin Gunderson (Headteacher), Kieron (Student), Alok Sharma MP, Ellie (Student).
