A NEW awards scheme is being launched to celebrate the hundreds of young people who are making a difference in their communities.

The Bournemouth Young Volunteers Awards will give official recognition to people aged 13 to 21 who are giving up their time to help others.

Run by the Bournemouth 2026 Trust and the Bournemouth Council for Voluntary Services (CVS), with support from Bournemouth Council’s integrated youth service, the scheme will see young people receive certificates honouring the number of hours they serve in the community. This will culminate in an annual awards ceremony, due to be held early next year, where their achievements will be celebrated.

Bob Boulton, chairman of the Bournemouth 2026 Trust, said: “There are many young people who are volunteering their time to help other people or projects that benefit the whole community. We passionately believe that their efforts should not go unrecognised and we help young people reach their full potential.

“By carrying out voluntary work these young people are demonstrating dedication, passion and hard work.

“Our certificates will give young volunteers official recognition for their work, which they can put on their CVs and show to potential employers, colleges and training organisations.”

Bournemouth CVS is working with more than 60 voluntary youth projects across the town to raise awareness of the new awards.

Young volunteers will receive a certificate when they have recorded 20, 50, 100, 250 and 500 hours.

Certificates will also be awarded to young people who have given up their time to help at one-off events.

Bournemouth 2026 Trust and Bournemouth CVS want to ensure every young person who carries out community voluntary work in Bourne-mouth is registered.

To register, or for more information, contact Helen Hender at Bournemouth CVS on 01202 466130 or by email youngvolunteers@bournemouth.cvs.org.uk