Know Your Money (KYM), a scheme run by Thirteen Group in partnership with Actes, has been recognised for its provision of free financial support and advice to young people living in the region, at a special award ceremony held by Youth Focus North East.
The scheme, which is a Big Lottery funded project, was named as the Best Youth Project of the Year, beating another two finalists to the title.
Since it was established in August 2013, KYM has provided one-to-one support to 2232 young people dealing with money issues, which has resulted in a combined total of more than £2m being generated or saved and has also helped 60 young people secure employment.
KYM utilises a number of unique social workshops to engage with its clients in an attempt to improve money management skills, previous events have included KYM Dine With Me, KYM’s Got Talent and Pimp My Bike, which gave young people the chance to restore and keep a bike to access work.
The service is currently delivering a series of Christmas workshops that have been designed to address the extra financial pressures placed on people during the festive period. The programme includes a session dedicated to cooking Christmas dinner on a budget.
KYM, which offers its services in Middlesbrough and has recently began working in Stockton and Hartlepool, is encouraging young people to get in touch if they are experiencing any money troubles over Christmas and the New Year. To arrange an appointment call 01642 240 336.
Susan Borrow, project manager at KYM said: “It’s great that the team have been recognised for their contribution to the local youth community. The work we do really does help change lives; without our support many people would have been unable to access the help they require in order to break free from money troubles.
“A major part in our success has been the relaxed and friendly atmosphere we have created – even though we are dealing with serious problems. Young people feel comfortable interacting with us, knowing that we have their best interests at heart.”