A MUSSELBURGH man is in the running for a top accolade for his “exceptional work” with young people.

David Brackenridge, 53, CEO of Venture Scotland, lives in Fisherrow and has been nominated for the Participation & Youth Voice Award, sponsored by the Scottish Government, at the National Youth Work Awards 2022.

The awards celebrate the power of youth work and the role of Scotland’s 70,000 youth work volunteers and staff in making a difference to the lives of young people.

Mr Brackenridge has been recognised for putting young people at “the very heart” of Venture Scotland and making sure their voices are heard.

The organisation’s aim is to empower disadvantaged young people to first recognise their skills and strengths and then achieve their potential, and in doing so, turn their lives around and make a contribution to their communities.

Each year, Venture Scotland supports 100 people aged 16-30 to develop new life skills and build their confidence, improve their mental and physical health, and increase their access to employment, training, education and volunteering.

In 2020, five of Venture Scotland (VS) graduate young people designed the ambassador programme – a two-year programme which would give them the chance to give their voice to decisions within VS and shape the future experience of other young people.

The ambassadors spent the next year collaborating over Zoom and in person. They joined board meetings, activity days with young people, engaged with funders and assisted with staff interviews.

Mr Brackenridge was both the “inspiration” behind the ambassador programme and the “driving force” to make it happen.

A VS ambassador, who declined to be named, said: “This has been a rewarding and exciting experience thanks to David’s enthusiasm and engaging approach, and him allowing us to shape and design the programme with only a little gentle guidance. He has ensured my voice is heard throughout the charity and this gives me a sense of pride and value.”

Also nominated for Participation & Youth Voice Award are Hannah Brisbane, Girlguiding Scotland; and Nina Collins, Forces Children Scotland.

Tim Frew, CEO of YouthLink Scotland, said: “We are coming through a very challenging pandemic, where youth workers across Scotland have supported so many young people through this difficult period. These awards are a great opportunity to celebrate the incredible contribution of all our youth workers.”

The awards dinner is on Wednesday at the DoubleTree Hilton Hotel in Glasgow, hosted by BAFTA award winning actress Jane McCarry, aka Isa from Still Game, and Jamie Hepburn MSP, Minister for Higher Education, Further Education, Youth Employment and Training and Youth Work.

Visit youthlinkscotland.org to get involved.