On Tuesday 24 July YSS Operations Director Debb Grantham and Senior Practitioner Jessica Whitfield completed the final phase in the recruitment of YSS Young Ambassadors.

Young Ambassadors are role models, inspiring others through their personal experience of turning their lives around.

After submitting applications and undergoing interviews, Marcus and Chloe were invited to take part in a half day training and induction session. The training involved a variety of exercises, including confidentiality and safeguarding, and a pictorial representation of the qualities needed through ‘Super Ambassador’.

Marcus and Chloe received support from YSS’ Arc and Divert services, which provide one-to-one support to young people who are involved, or at risk of becoming involved in the criminal justice system across West Mercia. They are diversionary services aimed at young people who are displaying anti-social behaviour and have started to disengage with education and training. Skilled keyworkers and volunteer mentors provide support to young people referred to the service, helping them to access community based activities and other appropriate agencies, diverting them away from crime and into activities, such as music or sports clubs. 

As part of their new roles as Young Ambassadors, Marcus and Chloe will share their stories to raise awareness of the issues  young people face, and the support available to help divert them away from getting into trouble. The Young Ambassadors will present to young people, fundraisers, decision makers and the media.

Lorraine Preece, YSS Chief Executive, said: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome both Marcus and Chloe as Young Ambassadors to YSS. They are the best representatives we could ask for and are pleased they are able to use their stories to inspire change in other young people.”

Chloe and Marcus said they were very excited about being the first Young Ambassadors and couldn’t wait to meet up again.

The training was followed up by lunch with their key workers, Dave and Chris, and a highly competitive game of ten pin bowling!

To find out more about Arc please click here. To find out more about Divert, click here.