Youth Justice Agency volunteer awards

The Youth Justice Agency has paid tribute to all the volunteers who help deliver its vital range of services to young people, families and victims.

At a ceremony in Parliament Buildings, Stormont, the awards recognised the work of all these volunteers acknowledging the valuable role they play in helping divert young people from crime. Award certificates were presented to volunteers by former Manchester United and Northern Ireland footballer Pat McGibbon.

Youth Justice Agency Chief Executive Declan McGeown said: “Volunteers are positive role models for young people, assisting them in making good choices about their lives and diverting them from crime. They can really help young people develop the skills and maturity they need as they move towards adulthood.”

The annual ‘Ross McCartney Volunteer Award’, in memory of a former volunteer worker who died from cancer at the age of 24, was presented to Pascal McLoughlin, who volunteers with the Agency’s Belfast Area Team.  

Chief Executive Declan McGeown continued “It is a fitting tribute to Ross, who made a positive impact on the lives of young people before his untimely death, that the Agency continues to sponsor an annual award in recognition of his outstanding work.

“This year’s winner Pascal McLoughlin has demonstrated similar qualities and values. His personal commitment and determination is commendable and inspires confidence in the vital role that all volunteers play in helping and supporting young people.”

Notes to editors: 

1. The Ross McCartney award has been sponsored by the Agency in response to the contribution of Ross McCartney, a volunteer in the Foyle area who died from cancer in May 2010, aged 24.
2. Winner for 2018, Pascal McLoughlin volunteers with the Agency’s Belfast Area Team.
3. The Youth Justice Agency is seeking new volunteers across all its Area Teams. If you are interested in volunteering with the Youth Justice Agency, please e-mail: info@yjani.gov.uk for further details.
4. Former Manchester United and Northern Ireland footballer Pat McGibbon is founder of the “Train2BSmart” charity which aims to promote mental health through sport.
5. The department may take photographs and videos at announcements and events to publicise its work. Photographs, interviews, videos or other recordings may be issued to media organisations for publicity purposes or used in promotional material, including in publications, newspapers, magazines, other print media, on television, radio and electronic media (including social media and the internet). Photographs and videos will also be stored on the department's internal records management system. The department will keep the photographs and recordings for no longer than is necessary for the purposes for which they have been obtained. View the department's Privacy Policy here.
6. All media enquiries should be directed to the Department of Justice Press Office on 028 9052 6444. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07623 974 383 and your call will be returned.

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