Sweet success for County Durham´s young people

February 12th 2026

Twelve community groups across County Durham have been recognised for changing young people’s lives, as £35,000 was presented at this year’s High Sheriff Youth Awards.

For one unforgettable evening, Hardwick Hall Hotel in Sedgefield became a scene straight from Wonka’s chocolate factory, with host Peter Barron taking on the role of Mr Wonka himself. Colour, creativity and celebration filled the room, with young people and the organisations who stand beside them at the heart of it all.

Organised by Point North, the community foundation for County Durham and Tees Valley, the High Sheriff Youth Awards honour community groups who are committed to creating brighter futures for young people.

With support from the High Sheriff of Durham, each year the awards are presented to recognise the extraordinary contribution of local community groups and provides them with funds to continue supporting young people across County Durham, Darlington, Hartlepool, and Stockton.

This year’s High Sheriff of Durham, Michael Poole, praised both the winners and the groups who support them: “The judging panel were certainly tested by the extremely high calibre of the applications received. The awards aren’t about being perfect. They’re about stepping up, showing kindness, helping, and making a difference. That’s exactly what young people across this county are doing—supported every step of the way by incredible organisations that give them the space and guidance to thrive.

“What you’re all doing is what makes County Durham a stronger, kinder and more connected place.”

The biggest award of the night, £5,000, was presented to West View Project, which has provided opportunities for children and young people to learn, grow and develop their skills and confidence for more than 40 years.

Winners also included: Durham Association Boys & Girls Clubs and MK Youth Sport CIC (both £1,500), Durham Area Youth and Learning a New Way CIC (both £2,000), Pelton Fell Community Partnership and The Activity Den (both £2,500), Corner House @ Newtown, Durham City Youth Project and The Allotment Project CIC (all £3,000), Friends of the Oaks School and Fishburn Youth and Community Centre (both £4,000). A further £1,000 was shared between three ‘Golden Ticket’ winning groups.

Together, they shared £35,000 to strengthen their work, offer enriching residential trips and experiences, and ensure more young people can access safe, supportive spaces in their communities.

The evening also highlighted that young people are the leaders of tomorrow and today.

Two young boys received special recognition from the High Sheriff after their attentiveness and sense of responsibility prompted a safeguarding response from Cleveland Police. Their courage was a reminder that young people are not simply recipients of support, they are active contributors to safer, stronger communities.

This was echoed by Rylie Sweeney, one of the Children´s Commissioner´s ambassadors, who took to the stage to launch a new workshop she will deliver in partnership with Point North. The programme will equip young people with the confidence and skills needed to share their experiences and influence the decisions that shape their lives.

Michelle Cooper, Chief Executive of Point North, reflected on the wider context facing communities: “The past few years have tested us all. The pandemic, the rising cost of living and increasing pressure on services have created real struggles for young people and their families.

“But even when the world feels heavy, we see remarkable resilience. Community organisations are turning uncertainty into opportunity. They are creating safe spaces where young people can try new things, build confidence and believe in themselves.”

The event was made possible thanks to the support of Darlington Building Society, Durham Constabulary, Durham Police and Crime Commissioner, Durham Shopping Extravaganza, Ferguson Family Community First Fund, Sir James Knott Trust, UK Steel Enterprise and The Varley Family Foundation.

As the final awards were presented, one message rang clear. In the face of rising costs, stretched services and growing need, community groups are not stepping back. They are stepping up.

And with the right support behind them, young people across County Durham will continue to shine.