SAFE@last up for top award

A CHARITY'S work to help children and young people stay safe has been recognised with a national award nomination.

SAFE@Last has been short-listed for a Social Change Award and the children's charity will go head to head with two other finalists to win the title which is voted for by the public.

The accolade, in the Every Day Impact category, is part of the Directory of Social Change awards which will take place in London on November 26.

And now, staff at the Dinnington-based charity, are urging Rotherham folk to go on-line and vote for SAFE@Last to bring the award back to the borough.

Mark Smith, head of the charity's operations, said: "We are pleased to have been nominated for a Social Change Award which recognises the continuing work of SAFE@Last and all its staff and volunteers to ensure that children and young people are safe on a daily basis. 

"We are in a tough category and need as many people as possible to go online and vote for us.

"Winning this award would help us to raise our profile and give recognition to the quality services we provide every day of the year to vulnerable young people."

SAFE@Last, which has been running for nine years, works in South Yorkshire with children and young people who are at risk through running away from home.

Staff and volunteers provide services including a 24 hour helpline, MISPER (Missing Persons) scheme, run in partnership with South Yorkshire Police, preventative workshops and an emergency young person's refuge which is the only one in England outside of London. 

To cast your vote visit www.socialchangeawards.org.uk.