Duke of Edinburgh Award
Young people from Kirklees have clocked up almost 20,000 hours of volunteering time thanks to their involvement in a national programme.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award for 2019/20 saw participants from across our district make a huge difference in their local community.
Over 1,400 young people enrolled on the programme through schools, colleges and other organisations, getting involved in a wide range of volunteering activities such as helping those in need, working in charity shops, supporting environmental projects, taking on sports leadership roles, fundraising and litter picking.
Even this year’s Covid-19 restrictions couldn’t stop them completing their programmes. Thanks to the young people’s hard work, Kirklees was one of the top-ranked areas in northern England for its contribution to the scheme.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) Award is open to all 14 to 24-year-olds and is a popular way of developing skills for life and work whilst also having fun.
Kirklees Council plays a vital role in administering the award locally, supporting young people to aspire, achieve and fulfil their potential.
Cllr Carole Pattison, Cabinet member for Learning, Aspiration and Communities, said:
“The award is running differently due to Covid-19, but its impact remains incredibly positive. We’re delighted that so many young people have taken part and we’re proud of their efforts.
“Volunteering is a big part of the scheme and it’s fantastic to see our young people setting an example by showing commitment to their local area. The amount of support being provided within our communities, especially during this very difficult year, is so uplifting – and the DofE Award is very much a part of that community effort.”
For more information about taking part, visit our Duke of Edinburgh Award website.