Health & Social Care student wins ‘Young Volunteer of the Year’ Award

Waltham Forest College student Rebecca Higgins, was recognised for her drive and passion for supporting young people in Barnardo’s London Regions Awards – winning the ‘Young Volunteer of the Year’ title.

The event took place in March and was hosted by Lynn Gradwell, Director London Region of Barnardo’s, and Sam Monaghan, Corporate Director Children’s Services (England) at Regents Park London. Jo Chaney – Children’s Service Manager of The Indigo Project, presented Rebecca with the award on the evening.

Rebecca, 17, a Health & Social Care student at the College, joined Barnardo’s, one of the UK’s leading children’s charities as a volunteer in May 2015. Whilst studying at the College, she then decided to spend her 3 weeks work placement at the Barnardo’s Indigo Project in Ilford.

It was not long before team managers observed Rebecca’s strong work ethic and professional approach when working with young people with severe learning difficulties and disabilities. This led to the team nominating her for the ‘Young Volunteer of the Year Award’.

Line Manager, Mark Carr said: “Rebecca’s approach to supporting young people was very instinctive and she was in tune with their needs.  She has built a fantastic reputation for herself which led to her being asked to help with other departments within the service.”

Rebecca has now been offered a paid position at Barnardo’s as a part-time Relief Worker.

Rebecca said: “I thoroughly enjoy my course and the work I did as a volunteer. I was shocked when I found out I had been nominated for the award. I’m very passionate about what I do, and I know this is the right career path for me.”