Selfless Jill on awards shortlist

A DEDICATED youth worker has been nominated for a prestigious regional gong after helping to change young lives across the borough.

Jill Eckersley, from Royton, led Groundwork Oldham and Rochdale Prince’s Trust’s 12-week personal development programme for unemployed 16 to 25-year-olds.

Participants took part in team-building activities, a week-long residential visit, a community project and two weeks’ work experience. They also received advice on CV writing and interview skills.

Jill (34), who has worked with more than 160 young people from the area, has now been nominated for a Leadership Award in recognition of her patience, tolerance and understanding of others.

She said: “I can’t believe it, I’m just so happy to have been nominated for this award.

“It came out of the blue and was the last thing I was expecting.

“I love working with the young people on the team and I’ve seen so many of them completely turn their lives around — it’s very satisfying work.”

Jill will go head-to-head against three other youth workers from across the region at The Prince’s Trust Celebrate Success ceremony at St George’s Hall in Liverpool on November 24.