Mum’s a shining star!

INSPIRATIONAL: Natalie George

Natalie’s proud to be making a difference
AN inspirational teenage mum who used her experiences to support other young people has been shortlisted for a national award.

Thanks to her dedication and hard work, Natalie George (19) beat hundreds of other candidates to become one of three finalists in the Best New Volunteer category at the vInspired National Awards, the biggest national youth awards ceremony in the country.

Natalie, of Alt, has spent the last seven-and-a-half months working on the v24/24 Sex Positive Campaign, with Brook Pennine, which encourages young people not to be ashamed of their gender or sexuality, and gives advice on safe sex.

Having to juggle caring for daughter Ruby (2) while studying health and social care at youth charity Rathbone, Natalie seized the opportunity to become a volunteer on the campaign which aims to challenge society’s stereotypes of young people.

Natalie said: “The campaign at Brook sounded brilliant. I feel like I was looked down upon as a young parent. Young people, and young parents especially, are not treated equally.

“They’re all looked down upon and that needs to change.”

Having been successful in her interview, Natalie took up her place on the scheme alongside her college studies.

She began to spread the word of the campaign by asking people on the streets to sign a petition agreeing that they wouldn’t judge young people.

Natalie also shared her experience of becoming a teenage mum to encourage others to practice safe sex and good sexual health.

Championing Brook, Natalie said: “This centre is a really positive service which is great for young people. It’s confidential, and every visitor can relate to us.

“When I talk to people in Brook, I always get a positive response.

“I’m making a difference to young people and for that I’m really proud of myself.

And after finding the experience a learning curve for herself, too, she’s applied to continue her volunteering at Mahdlo, Oldham’s new youth centre, which opens next month.

“I get so much out of volunteering, I love everything about it,” she said. “I’ve learned more than I ever thought I could.

“I’ve grown with confidence and have made some really good relationships with the rest of the team.”

In the future, Natalie would like to work with young people living with disabilities.

Winners of the vInspired awards will be announced at a star-studded ceremony in central London on March 22, 2012.