RISE awards showcase inspirational individuals

Inspirational individuals across South Derbyshire have been recognised for achieving their goals and helping others realise their potential.

The first Raising Aspirations (RISE) awards, at Oakland Village in Swadlincote, celebrated those who have gone above and beyond to overcome personal challenges and accomplish their goals.

Five worthy winners received awards:

RISE Recognised Award – Callum Hull

Callum previously struggled with socialising and mixing with people. The 15-year-old has overcome these barriers to become a valued member of the Dreamscheme – a South Derbyshire District Council led initiative which runs projects to benefit the local community.

RISE Inspired Award – Lauren Taylor

Lauren has a ‘relentless passion’ for helping students at William Allitt School, in Newhall, to achieve their dreams. Through a bespoke training programme, the 24-year-old has helped pupils to gain work experience with an MP, meet with a professional photographer and successfully apply to the Rolls Royce apprentice scheme.

RISE Succeed Award - Victoria Crutchley

Victoria has been recognised for her dedication since joining the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) Foundation course. The William Allitt student helps her peers when they need support and guidance. The 17-year-old is described as a ‘true asset’ and a ‘prime example as to what can be achieved through hard work and commitment’.

RISE Enrichment Award – Vivien Sharples

Having an older sibling with special needs taught Vivien at an early stage the importance of caring for others. It is these values that have driven her on to help countless young people on their journey to adulthood as the head teacher at The Pingle Academy, in Swadlincote.

RISE Award – Lance Booth

Lance has dedicated the past 30 years of his life to helping and inspiring others, selflessly giving up his own time to offer countless opportunities and adventures to Beavers, Cubs and Scouts in the 1st St Stephens of Woodville.

Martyn Ford, Leader of the District Council, which has developed RISE in partnership with Derbyshire County Council, said:

“The RISE awards are designed to celebrate the achievements of unsung heroes within our schools, communities and businesses. It’s incredibly moving and inspiring to see the commitment and drive that the winners and runners up have shown to grow personally or help others. Each and every one of them should be proud of their achievements and the positive impact they are having. They are a credit to themselves and South Derbyshire.”

Further information on RISE and how to get involved can be found at www.southderbyshire.gov.uk.

27 June 2018