East Leeds community worker gains national recognition (Leeds Liberal Democrats)

Leeds Liberal Democrats <info@leedslibdems.org.uk>

East Leeds community worker gains national recognition

September 26, 2006 8:00 PM

Cllr Richard Brett (far left) with the Community Unity voluntary group outside the Richmond Hill Community Centre An East Leeds community worker has gained national recognition for her work with Richmond Hill-based volunteer group, Community Unity. Maureen Lillywhite, a development worker for Healthy Living, won the Respect award for taking a stand and one thousand pounds in prize money at a recent awards ceremony in Birmingham.

Maureen was nominated for the award by a local Police Community Support Officer, who was impressed by the work Community Unity did with children, young people and families in Richmond Hill. Local Councillor Richard Brett, who has close ties with Community Unity, went down to their base at the Richmond Hill Community Centre to congratulate members on their success.

Councillor Richard Brett (Lib Dem, Burmantofts and Richmond Hill) said "I'm delighted that Maureen and the rest of the Community Unity group have been rewarded for the wonderful work they do here in Richmond Hill. This is a voluntary organisation made up of local people who have decided to take action to improve their area. Too often we dwell on the negatives in this neck of the woods rather than celebrating the achievements of groups such as Community Unity."

Maureen Lillywhite added, "Community Unity has been up and running for four years now. It's great that someone has finally recognised the hard work that has gone on here in Richmond Hill."

Notes

1. Pictured, Cllr Richard Brett (far left) with the Community Unity voluntary group outside the Richmond Hill Community Centre. Maureen Lillywhite is far right holding the certificate she received for her work with Community Unity.

2. Community Unity meets every Tuesday between 10:30am - 12pm. Their meetings are open to the public.

3. Numerous initiatives have been launched by the group in the four years they've been up and running including trips to York Maze and Chester Zoo involving young people, older residents and immigrant families with the aim of promoting understanding and respect between the various groups.