The search is on to find the borough’s most amazing young people who have shown dedication and contributed to their local community in the last 12 months.

Dudley Youth Council, with the support of Dudley Council, has opened nominations for this year’s Dudley Youth Awards. The awards aim to recognise and celebrate all the amazing young people in the borough for their hard work, dedication and achievements.

There are ten categories including environment and conservation, inspiring futures, kindness, creative and leadership. Young people aged 11-19 (up to 25 with disabilities) can be nominated – unless it is for the inspiring futures award which is the only adult category.

Young people nominated must live or go to school in Dudley borough. Councillor David Vickers, deputy leader of the council, said:

"Young people have had it particularly tough during the pandemic, facing disruption to their education and missing out on social interaction with their friends.

"But they are resilient and I’m sure there are many examples of young people who have gone above and beyond in the last 12 months, whether it’s helping people impacted by the pandemic or championing good causes or making improvements in their local area.

"Our Child Friendly Dudley initiative is about bring our community together to create the best possible borough for our children and young people to live, play and learn in. I’m delighted to see these awards celebrate our amazing young people.

"I would encourage everyone to nominate someone they think would be worthy of an award."

The closing date for nominations is November 12. Shortlisting will take place on November 22 and shortlisted nominees and guests will be invited to the Dudley Youth Awards ceremony taking place on January 21 next year at Dudley College. 

Dudley Council is working with partners, stakeholders, community groups, schools and residents to build a new ‘Child Friendly Dudley’. The initiative is linking people, groups and business together to create a brighter future for our children and young people.

The award organisers are also looking for young people to perform as part of a talent show at awards evening. More information about this and the award categories can be found at dudley.gov.uk and people can submit nominations online.