Gavin Williamson, MP for South Staffordshire, attended the Cheslyn Hay Boys Brigade (BB) awards ceremony over the weekend.
Gavin watched as members received certificates, acknowledging the completion of their respective programmes.
On the award, Gavin said: “It was great to see the wonderful work and achievements of so many young people. The awards that people had been given was a fitting tribute to the work of the boys and also the volunteers, who make the Cheslyn Hay Boys Brigade such a successful organisation.
“I was particularly impressed by the fact that two members of the Boys Bridade had been given the Queen’s Badge, which is the highest accolade that can be achieved in the Boys Brigade. It was wonderful to be part of the ceremony in which they were presented with this award.”
The Boys' Brigade works with thousands of young people, many of whom have no other connection with the Church. Today, it 'is working with over 60,000 children and young people in over 1500 companies (groups) in the UK & Republic of Ireland, every week.
The organisation provides a programme of activities for children and young people from 5 to 18 years old.
These resources have been developed to help volunteer youth leaders work in a ‘relevant and creative’ way. The aim is that, through these programmes, volunteers will be able to make a positive contribution to a young person's life and be able to share their faith.
The Queen's Badge offers the chance to engage with the local community, take on responsibility, set personal goals, build self confidence and experience a sense of achievement.
In order to earn the badge, members must complete a series of tasks, including participating in skills-based training, taking responsibility within the BB or Church and providing voluntary service or support to others outside the BB or Church.