A Runcorn man has been shortlisted for a prestigious national award, for his efforts, volunteering for the Youth Justice Service in Cheshire.
Michael Hennessey, was formally presented with his well-deserved Butler Trust shortlisting Certificate by the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, David Keane at the Youth Cheshire conference.
The Butler Trust was set up in 1985, to recognise and celebrate outstanding practice by those working with offenders, through an annual award scheme.
In 2018 the Service nominated Michael for the Butler Trust Award by the Youth Justice Services who work with young people who offend in Cheshire.
Michael joined the Youth Justice Service in 2004 (15 years ago) – and has been a regular Referral Order panel member in Halton and Warrington.
Chris Dunn, Act-up Manager & Volunteer Co-Ordinator, Cheshire Youth Justice Services, said: “He has supported young people, parents and the Youth Justice Service to consider the offence(s) that they have committed, explore the impact it has had on the victims, their family and themselves and draw up contracts of intervention that they can work on to reduce their offending behaviour in the future and improve their lives generally.
“He has supported reparation projects, Restorative Justice Conferences (which brings the young person and harmed person together in the same room) and helped a group of young people to work alongside Edge Hill University to put together the YJS Logo that we are using today.
“Michael is dedicated to the service, and has often gone above and beyond, standing in a short notice, when someone is unwell; being a “champion” of change to improve the service and ensure that Young People’s needs are at the forefront of everything we do.”
Michael has worked all his life in education. Since his retirement, not only does he support the Youth Justice service with Referral Order Panels; mentoring; supporting reparation;providing training to future volunteers and running workshops at service away days.
He also is a very active school Governor to a local high school and a volunteer for the local food bank.
This certificate acknowledges that excellent work that he does, and the time he has given.
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer with the Youth Offending Service can contact Chris Dunn on 03451450055