Yorkshire Region Awards

For the first time, International Service has presented awards to those working in the Yorkshire and Humber region as part of our annual Human Rights Awards.

Important work happens on our own doorstep every single day, and we want to honour those in the region who are working to build a more equal society.

What better way to connect Yorkshire with the world than by celebrating, together, the achievements of those working internationally and locally?

The 2010 Yorkshire Region Awards

Sharron Smith, York Young Carers Centre

For 10 years Sharron has led the way in supporting young people
aged 8 to 18 who care for a family member at home.

Young carers are a relatively hidden sector of our society. In the City of York, over 400 young people are looking after family members who have an illness, disability or mental health problem.



Sharron has led the way in recognising young carers as children first. Such responsibility at a young age means young carers regularly develop emotional, psychological or eating problems. But Sharron and her team provide one-to-one support, trips and activities that enable young people to have a break from caring, and support groups where advice, fun and friendship are high on the agenda.  

Sharron campaigns for young carers to have the same opportunities as their peers. York Young Carers has helped open up life chances for young carers. Against the odds, many are supported into employment or university, making a long-lasting difference to each individual and future generations.

Visit the York Young Carers website

ASSIST, Sheffield

People seeking asylum are legally prevented from seeking work, registering themselves as homeless, or using local authority night shelters. Thousands become destitute and turn to the streets, struggling each day for food, accommodation and clothing. Even in Sheffield – a City of Sanctuary - it is estimated that over 1000 asylum seekers are destitute.



ASSIST (Asylum Seeker Support Initiative Short Term) has over 100 volunteers working to provide emergency support and care for destitute asylum seekers - in particular those who are elderly, pregnant or unwell. Around 80 people receive emergency overnight accommodation, food, clothing, and small grants. Providing one-to-one advice and access to transport, ASSIST also help people access the support and assistance that is available to them, and often help people pursue their claim for asylum. ASSIST strive to provide dignified support so that asylum seekers do not have to rely on hand-outs and food parcels.

Visit the ASSIST website