THE Isle of Wight's young leaders have stepped up to help Island families.

An awards ceremony, held at Isle of Wight Pearl, saw ten members of the South Wight Area Youth (SWAY) charity presented with certificates after completing a young leaders' course.

They were also given hoodies and received a round of applause from assembled supporters, volunteers and youth workers.

The course modules included volunteering, self-esteem and communication.

They also organised camping and activities for young people, and helped others access youth work and family support.

The aim of the course was to encourage and empower young people to improve the quality of life for themselves, their families and communities.

SWAY chairman Peter Johnson said: "It's great that the young people get acknowledged and valued for their achievements."

The charity is now planning to reopen the Chale cafe overlooking the Hoy monument before the summer holidays ­— offering opportunities for fundraising and work experience.

For more information, go to www.southwightyouth.org

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