Clapton young film makers win Philip Lawrence Award

Fawcett Youth Group

A group of young people from Clapton has won the Philip Lawrence Award for their campaigning work on community issues.

Fawcett Youth Group collected its award on Monday (14 December) from Home Secretary Alan Johnson at a glamorous awards ceremony hosted by television presenter, Sir Trevor McDonald.

The group has made a number of short films, both fictional and factual, which highlight the challenges that face young people on their estate in Clapton, E5.

Subjects can range from relationships, gangs, teenage pregnancy, friendship and crime. The group’s latest film focused on policing and young people.

Called the Cett4 Docu Drama Project, the group managed all aspects of production from scripting and research to budgets, filming and editing.

Fawcett Youth Group member Yasmin Uzomah (15), said, “We really enjoyed making the films. The group is made up of such different people there are always ideas from all kinds of perspectives.

“To win an award is fantastic and we’re all looking forward to walking on the red carpet. The one we used for our premier only cost £3.97 and disintegrated when people walked on it.”

Alan Johnson, Home Secretary, said, “I am honoured to be a part of these inspiring awards that recognise the fantastic contribution young people make to their local communities.

“This public recognition shines a light on their varied and impressive achievements, and I hope it inspires other young people to follow in their footsteps.”

Ed Balls, Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families, said, “I congratulate all the winners of this year’s Philip Lawrence Awards for such fantastic work in their local communities.

“The range of projects showcased this year reflects the talent, dedication and creativity of young people in this country.

“The projects demonstrate how young people are helping to break down barriers between groups in their communities. Their contribution to the wider community is also helping them to develop new skills and gain confidence. We should all be proud of today’s winners.”

Sir Trevor McDonald, TV presenter and Broadcaster, said, “The issues dealt with by this group are unquestionably important. The problems associated with how the Police interact with young people are a big challenge.”

The awards were set up in memory of head teacher Philip Lawrence who was murdered outside his school 14 years ago.

So far they have recognised over 1000 young people aged between 11 and 20 in over 80 communities since 1997. Winning projects receive £1000 and become members of the Philip Lawrence Awards Fellowship which offers training and support to further the winners work.

Frances Lawrence, founder of the awards, said, “The young people who created the Fawcett Youth Group show us the very best of human nature.

“They have identified a serious problem and reached out to help people whose lives are affected by it. It’s an original and imaginative project and has tangible results in the community.

“The Philip Lawrence Awards celebrate all these young people for their determination to make things better and for the great inspiration they are to others.”