ChildLine calls for everyday superheroes
| Published: 23rd January 2007 13:30 |
They may not have magical powers or demonstrate super human strength but nominees for the awards will all go that extra mile to make a real difference to the lives of young people.
Children have till Monday 12 March to nominate their hero/heroine
The awards have been sponsored by BT since 1990 as part of its work with ChildLine, the UK's free, 24-hour helpline for children, which is one of the NSPCC's listening services.
The competition is an opportunity for children in Somerset to say thank you to unsung adult heroes; from teachers to youth group leaders and child minders to charity fundraisers or anyone who is doing that something extra to improve young people's lives. Although children cannot pick close family members, they can nominate foster parents and ChildLine also wants to hear from parents or carers on behalf of children who, through illness or disability, are unable to make their own nominations.
This year, children nominating their everyday superhero are also invited to name the celebrity they think has made the greatest contribution to the lives of young people. Thierry Henry and Jamie Oliver were both presented with awards last year for services to children for work on stamping out racism and bullying and campaigning for healthy school dinners respectively.
Jacqueline Wilson OBE (Children's Laureate) was the first famous adult to be chosen for a special BT ChildLine Award in 2004, in recognition of the way her writing has given millions of children and young people a unique insight into challenging subjects.
Since winning her award, Jacqueline continued her support of ChildLine by joining the judges last year and she will be judging the awards again in 2007.
Jacqueline said: "I am delighted to be back judging the BT ChildLine Awards. It gives me great pleasure to see the work that is being done to make children and young people happier, safer and more confident. I look forward to meeting this year's superheroes."
Revealing the identity of a real-life superhero is easy.
Children can either enter online at http://www.childline.org.uk/or write to BT ChildLine Awards, Freepost NATN1111, London E1 6BR for an entry form. Completed forms should be returned before the closing date of 28 February 2006, along with a letter explaining why the nominated adult is so special.
The winners will be announced in June and invited to a glittering awards ceremony at the BT Tower in London to receive their BT ChildLine Award - as well as a cash prize to donate to a charity of their choice.
Beth Courtier, head of Charity Programmes at BT, said: "The BT ChildLine Awards highlight the wonderful benefits for individuals and society when adults really listen and understand children. We're committed to ensuring that every child's voice is heard, which is why we work so closely with ChildLine."
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