The 'Taking a Stand'
Awards 2005
People who are determined to take a stand
against anti-social behaviour can make a real difference. They can
help transform their neighbourhood and their community.
Recognising the commitment, energy and courage
of local heroes is a key part of the National campaign to tackle
and not tolerate anti-social behaviour.
Today, we want to celebrate the achievements of
our local heroes, ordinary people who have done extraordinary
things to improve their local community.
Their stories are an inspiration, they are
people who have witnessed anti social behaviour and gathered
evidence in order for action to be taken. They have set up
residents' groups, Neighbourhood Watch schemes or worked with young
people to reduce anti-social behaviour.
Whatever they have done, we hope that the
experiences of 'our' Local heroes will inspire others to 'Take a
stand.'
Taking a Stand Award - Stainburn School - 'The Mortal
Crew'
In recognition of the work carried
out by Val Chicken and pupils from the school, who have educated
other children about the issues surrounding anti social behaviour.
Assisted by Val Chicken the pupils formed The Mortal Crew, a group
which researched the subject of anti social behaviour and how this
can have a negative impact on others lives. This research was
developed in to a 'theatre in education' performance and was
delivered to over 250 other pupils from schools across the
Allerdale area. The performance delivered a positive message which
deplored the way some young people behave and offered alternatives
to being involved in anti-social behaviour. This project was so
successful it is now to be repeated in other schools across West
Cumbria
Taking a Stand Award - Salterbeck Tenants and Residents
Association 
In recognition of the action taken
by the members of the Association in tackling crime and disorder
within the Salterbeck Estate. Ten years ago Salterbeck was regarded
as one of the worst housing estates in the area. The levels of
crime and nuisance being committed on the estate meant that
residents had reached the point where they felt action had to be
taken.
Over the last ten years the
Association has worked with many agencies to transform the estate
into an area which now has lower levels of crime and disorder. This
has required great fortitude and leadership.
The members of the Association have
raised awareness of crime and disorder issues within the estate and
have encouraged residents to take action against the perpetrators
of crime and disorder, resulting in real improvements to the
quality of life on the estate.
Taking a Stand Award - Mr Gary Banks
In recognition, of the action taken
by Mr Gary Banks, in his role as CCTV operator, in the town of
Workington. Mr Banks has adopted a pro-active approach in the use
of the CCTV system within the town. This approach has led to high
quality video evidence being produced, which in turn has led to the
conviction of numerous offenders who have operated within
Workington town centre.
The evidence he has gathered has
been used to identify shoplifters, violent offenders, drug dealers
and those involved in acts of anti-social behaviour. Most recently
Mr Banks has gathered evidence which has assisted in a Anti Social
Behaviour Order being granted against a notorious town nuisance.
Mr Banks is held in high regard by his police
colleagues. His pro-active manner is making a significant
contribution to fighting crime and anti-social behaviour within
Workington town.
This year the award ceremony has been kindly sponsored by:
- ASB Solicitors
- Copeland Homes
- Impact Housing
- The Cumberland Building Society
- Richardsons Wine Merchants.
- The Hunday Manor Hotel
We would like to thank all of our sponsors as without their
kind donations this event would not have been possible.