3 days Ago
Kevin Bradburne, director of operations at Youth Federation, based on the Rossmore Business Village outside the town, was recognised for services to young people. While he admitted his pride at being given the MBE – Member of the British Empire – he quickly praised his colleagues in the youth sector and highlighted the issues being faced by all. “I have known for about two months,” he said.
“I genuinely don’t have a clue about who nominated me – I really don’t. “It’s a weird one – I know a lot of people who, in my view, do a lot more than me. “I didn’t expect it as someone with my accent off The Lache – it was a bit of a surprise to be honest and whether I deserve it, God knows.
“We’re proud of the work that has got me the award. “Young people these days are having a nightmare – bullying is 24/7 now because it’s online and there was once a time when you got to go home at 3pm after being bullied. “But now it’s 24/7 and domestic violence is through the roof.
“I’ve been getting calls over Christmas about safeguarding because of things that have been happening to kids. “it’s a brilliant thing to be put forward for, service to young people, so I am proud of that and also of the sector too because there’s a lot of volunteers out there who do the same as me.” Kevin said that all kids are facing issues in 21st century Britain and hopes to see more people coming to the aid of youngsters.
He added: “This honour doesn’t take away the problems that young people in Ellesmere Port face, especially those in poverty. “I was with a mum, who was on minimum wage, prior to Christmas who was accessing the foodbank because she was having to choose between feeding the kids or giving them a life. “She had to find money to allow them to do sport or activities and had to use the foodbank for it.
“If you’ve got money, then it can be better but those kids also have their own problems. “There’s a lot of people facing problems out there and you’ve just got to keep fighting for them especially with all the cuts that will come through because it’s only going to be worse for them. “I just want to thank everyone who works as hard as we do to help young people.
“Anything that would be helping getting people volunteering with youngsters is a big help.”.
