Girvan Friday Night Football project picks up prestigious award

Girvan’s Friday Night Football youth work project has been recognised at the National Youth Work Awards 2024.

At a ceremony in Glasgow, the team picked up the prestigious Prevention and Inclusion Award sponsored by No Knives Better Lives.

The award celebrates the project’s outstanding efforts in promoting inclusion, fostering positive relationships and preventing youth violence through the power of football.

It further recognises Friday Night Football’s dedication to creating a safe and inclusive space where stereotypes are challenged, difficult conversations are had and lives are positively impacted.

Friday Night Football focuses on transforming Friday nights in Girvan, a time which was previously associated with trouble for many young people.

In partnership with Girvan Youth Trust, Girvan Football Club, Active Girvan and Community Safety, Friday Night Football goes beyond the sport itself to address critical issues such as violence, positive masculinity and sectarianism.

By leveraging football as a catalyst for change, the project builds positive relationships and promotes active lifestyles among its participants. The initiative has created an opportunity for positive engagement and community building.

One of the key strengths of Friday Night Football highlighted by YouthLink Scotland, who organised the awards, was its focus on partnership and community spirit.

Through collaborations with Girvan Football Club, the project has implemented a football boot exchange program, ensuring that every young person has access to the necessary gear for participation.

Tim Frew, Chief Executive of YouthLink Scotland, commented on the significance of youth work in addressing contemporary challenges.

He said: “With the cost of living crisis intensifying and more young people encountering obstacles in education and employment, youth workers stand out as the true changemakers.

“Their invaluable contributions to the lives of countless young people deserve recognition, as they are the unsung heroes strengthening our communities.”

Orielle Taylor, representing No Knives Better Lives, emphasised the importance of investing in youth work to prevent youth violence.

She added: “Youth work in Scotland is a critical partner in preventing youth violence. All young people, and especially those who have been harmed or are at risk of causing harm, should have access to quality youth work provision. Increased investment is needed in the youth work sector to ensure this.”

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