Local AM Joyce Watson has given her vote in The National Lottery Awards 2009 and is urging others to do the same, to celebrate the achievements of lottery funded projects which make a huge difference to individuals and communities across Wales.Mid and West Wales AM Mrs Watson said:
“The National Lottery Awards are an excellent way to raise awareness of the fantastic work being carried out across the country with lottery funding.
"I urge people to vote for their favourite projects, to celebrate the hard work of those who dedicate themselves to improving the lives of so many in communities across Wales.
“I have voted for Mencap Cymru's Partners in Politics project, which I recently took part in. I met young people in Pembrokeshire College and learnt more about how young disabled people wish to be engaged in civil society and politics in Wales.
"Their Mid and West Wales Officer Helen is a real inspiration to all, not just to those with disabilities."
Helen Jones, Mid and West Wales Officer for Partners in Politics, chaired a session between students with additional learning needs and Mrs Watson. Helen supported students to think of issues they wanted to raise with their Assembly Member.The students raised issues including the need for better work experience opportunities and more job opportunities locally, while Mrs Watson explained why she got involved in politics and what she enjoys about the job.
Joyce said: "It is unfair that there are so few opportunities for people with additional needs to gain paid employment, when they have so much to offer.
“This project is about giving young people with learning disabilities a chance to get their voice heard. It’s really important that young people with a learning disability don’t just accept things that they aren’t happy with. They should stand up for themselves and make sure that the people in power take notice of what they’re saying. Lottery-funded projects like this make such a difference to the lives of so many people in communities across Wales, and promote long-term positive social change.
"Partners in Politics has had a big impact on young people with learning disabilities in Wales, so I have given them my vote in the National Lottery Award for Best Charity or Voluntary Project, and I urge others to show their support for their favourite project.”
The Partners in Politics team have already visited over 120 schools and colleges across Wales. The project employs four officers with a learning disability, which is key to the success of the training sessions.
Voting for the semi-finals ends on Friday 10 July. To register your vote for Partners in Politics call 0844 686 2672 or log on to www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/awards
Image Caption: Joyce Watson AM with Helen Jones, Partners in Politics and students at Pembrokeshire College.
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