A REMARKABLE nine-year-old from Shaw has been awarded the prestigious British Citizen Youth Award for his efforts to raise money for his local foodbank.
Joseph Thompson, a pupil at Beal Vale Primary, was determined to make a difference during the UK’s national lockdown by helping a charity within his community.
His local foodbank had come under tremendous pressure because of the coronavirus pandemic and was struggling to provide help for local people in crisis.
Selfless Joseph decided to do something about it and raised £550 by shaving his head and donated the funds directly to the foodbank.
Proud mum Natalie said: “It is just unbelievable. Out of the thousands of children nominated, my little boy is one of only 25 youngsters to receive this medal. Our whole family is very proud of him.
“Joseph has received his medal and has been invited to The Palace of Westminster for afternoon tea and to receive a Certificate of Honour, when it is safe to do so.”
In raising money for a worthy cause, the kindhearted year five student has realised the kind of impact he can make on others.
Prior to his charity headshave, Joseph and his sister Lilly, 7, who also attends Beal Vale Primary, made paper rainbows and delivered them to the elderly residents living in his area.
He is now more determined than ever to continue raising money for the foodbank and homeless people within his community.
Mike Faulkner, co-founder of The British Citizen Youth Award, said: “Whilst it is disappointing not be able to present Joseph’s medal in person, we are determined to recognise him for his exceptional endeavours.
“He will still have the full British Citizen Youth Award experience when we can safely gather indoors in larger numbers.
“The 25 medalists represent all that is good about young people today.
“Their commitment to others and to making society better for everyone, was the driving force for us to unite them with their medals at the earliest opportunity.
“Whilst some recognition programmes are regarded as elitist, the British Citizen Youth Award remains accessible to everyone and welcomes nominations year-round.
“By highlighting the commitment of young people like Joseph we aim to make positive impact in the community the norm rather than the exception”.