We were delighted to receive the Diversity and Inclusivity Award at last week’s York Sport Awards, in recognition of our Young Person’s Leadership Programme that we launched last year with York City FC Foundation.

The prestigious ceremony took place at York Racecourse last Thursday, and celebrated sporting achievements and successes across the city, including team performance, individual stories of excellence, and community initiatives.

IDAS’ Young Person’s Leadership Programme gives young people who have witnessed or been subjected to domestic abuse opportunities to gain a recognised qualification, take part in physical activity, build self-esteem, make friends, and – most importantly - have fun. Our pilot programme took place in October and was generously supported by First Direct and York City FC Foundation. We’re about to launch the second programme next month, which has been made possible through support and funding from the Ed de Nunzio Charitable Trust.

It is wonderful for our team of dedicated colleagues and volunteers to receive recognition for their hard work, but more importantly this award will enable us to raise awareness of our vital work, and to reach victims and survivors of domestic abuse in York who urgently need our help.