Leicester training charity scoops Selco support

A Leicester charity that offers education and training opportunities to young people who are struggling in mainstream schools has won a Selco community award.

S.T.A.R.S, a non-profit charitable organisation, has secured £500 worth of building materials through our Community Heroes campaign.

S.T.A.R.S works alongside training provider Educ8 to offer opportunities to teenagers and young adults at risk of becoming NEET (not in education, employment or training).

The Community Heroes award will be used to improve the training centre at Allexton Youth & Community Centre on Frolesworth Road.

Jevon Payne, of S.T.A.R.S, said: “We are thrilled to have secured this funding from Selco. It will make a huge difference to the work we do with at-risk young people in Leicester.

“We are passionate about helping young people progress their lives in the most appropriate way for them, whether that’s through training, a college place, an apprenticeship or by entering employment.”

Mason Yates, deputy manager of Educ8 in Leicester, said: “Working alongside S.T.A.R.S, we have seen many young people turn their lives around by obtaining qualifications they wouldn’t have got through the mainstream system.

“We look forward to visiting Selco in Leicester and buying materials including paint to improve the Allexton Youth and Community Centre. Having a bright and welcoming environment will enhance the atmosphere for our leaners and tutors.”

The charity is one of 12 organisations that we are awarding £500 worth of building materials to in our Community Heroes campaign.

It will now go head-to-head with the 11 other Community Heroes winners in a public vote in the new year to win £5,000 in cash, or £1,000 as runner-up.

S.T.A.R.S and Educ8 said should they win the £5,000 jackpot the cash would be used on installing shower facilities for physical education students and improving the electronic entrance system at the centre.

Carine Jessamine, Selco marketing director, said: “We’re really pleased to support the S.T.A.R.S project which has demonstrated its ability to change people’s lives through education.

“The Allexton Youth and Community Centre is a fantastic facility but just needs a little TLC. The £500 worth of materials from our Leicester branch will make the building much more welcoming for all who use it.”

Selco’s Leicester branch can be found on Parker Drive.

Other Community Heroes winners so far this year include Feed The Hungry UK, Bury Veterans Hub and 13th Warrington East Scout Group.

The Community Heroes application process has now closed.