Young parents in Lewisham are being recognised and celebrated at a special awards afternoon on Wednesday 14 February for their outstanding achievements.
The awards afternoon is dedicated to young parents (under 20) who obtained qualifications in various programmes on Lewisham’s Sure Start Plus scheme entitled ‘The Best I Can Be’.
The programmes included:
- Parenting
- Baby massage
- Self development
- Confidence building.
Councillor Robert Massey, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: 'I want to congratulate all the young parents who have shown incredible determination and hard work to achieve a qualification.
'Looking after a child is not an easy task and we want to support and encourage Lewisham’s parents to be the best that they can be.'
Siobhan Bell, Young Mayor of Lewisham, said: 'It is really great and inspiring to see young parents overcoming difficult situations to achieve what they want.
'I hope that this will help other young people to realise that anything is possible as long as you work hard and aim high.'
Before the awards presentation young parents in Lewisham will be invited to visit a host of information stalls offering advice.
These will include:
- Turning point ACAPS Lewisham – they support young children with drugs an alcohol problems
- Connexions – they help young people find work and training opportunities
- Young Fathers
- Community Drugs Project
- Various local colleges.
As well as the information stalls their will be a ‘pampering zone’ for parents to get a free massage and facial or for the more creative there will be opportunities to make a card or learn DJ skills.
The event will finally culminate at 4.30pm with all young parents receiving certificates for completing their courses.