Youth Justice Service Officer shortlisted for outstanding pastoral care award

Tyrone Hughes, Post-16 Education, Training and Employment Officer with Bridgend County Borough Council’s Youth Justice Service, was recently one of five shortlisted finalists for the Outstanding Contribution to Pastoral Care Award with the National Association of Pastoral Education (NAPCE).

The only finalist that was not based in educational provision, Tyrone’s nomination came following a cascade of praise from both colleagues and youths alike for his unassuming, caring nature and commitment to young people through his leading role with the Building Skills Programme - a scheme designed to develop practical skills, including carpentry and construction, providing young people with work experience and employability skills.

The programme undertakes projects that contribute to the wellbeing of the community and often include building play structures in schools, with the most recent project involving the creation of a memorial playground for a local child.

Catherine Evans, Operational Manager with the Youth Justice Service, offers an insight into the qualities that led to Tyrone’s nomination for the coveted award.  She said: “Aside from the work Tyrone completes with young people in the Building Skills Project to build their self-esteem and learn practical skills, he also acts as a mentor and role model to many.

“Tyrone is always happy to go above and beyond in his role to ensure that children are supported. This has included taking them to their first day at work (even if outside core hours), transporting them to attend appointments and assisting them to move between homes by transporting their belongings in his van. Tyrone is always happy to do this, and even assists with these things for children not on his caseload.

“The young people that work with Tyrone find him relatable and approachable. They respond well to his transparency and his non-judgemental manner. One particular young person, who was a heavy substance user, reduced his substance use so that he would not be attending sessions with Tyrone under the influence; he did this as a result of the safety concerns that had been highlighted to him.  He had not done this for any other professionals working with him, and the young person stated that they did this out of respect for Tyrone, which highlights the positive relationships he builds.”

In keeping with his modest reputation, commenting on his nomination Tyrone said: “The award nomination is not about me or the service, it’s recognition of the hard work that the young people put in.”

Cllr Martyn Jones, Cabinet Member for Education and Youth Services, said “Tyrone Hughes, how lucky we are to have you working with us and the children across the county borough who need you.  You are an asset to the Youth Justice Service and should be very proud, not just of being shortlisted for such a spectacular award, but of the way in which you are considered so highly by all those who know you.

“You will never know the full extent of your positive influence on the youths involved with the Building Skills Programme, as the ripple effect of your kindness and commitment will remain unseen.

“Well done for this fantastic achievement which recognises the dedication that you offer whole heartedly to your role.”

Image: One of the creations of the Building Skills Programme.