A GROUP of young campaigners has won an award for their creative approach to tackling litter in their community.
Halton Youth Cabinet received the Environmental Award at the BBC Radio Merseyside Make a Difference Awards for their Binimals project, which aims to reduce litter through eye-catching, animal-themed bin designs.
The project was developed by young people who wanted to address environmental issues in Halton and encourage the public to take greater pride in their surroundings.
Fin Venables, MYP of Halton Youth Cabinet, said: "To be recognised for our work is so amazing and we hope it inspires the next generation of young people."
The Youth Cabinet is made up of young people aged 11 to 18 who work together to campaign for change, represent their peers, and ensure that youth voices are heard in decision-making.
Through Binimals, the group took a creative approach to a common problem, redesigning litter bins with colourful, animal-inspired artwork to make them more noticeable and encourage people to use them.
Ben Worsell, another member of Halton Youth Cabinet who attended the awards, said: "To me, it isn't just moving that we won, but more so that there were so many different, worthy people who tried to also make a beneficial difference.
"To know that faith in humanity need not always be such an abstract concept."
The BBC Radio Merseyside Make a Difference Awards celebrate individuals and groups who go above and beyond to help others and improve their communities, with winners chosen across eight categories.
Halton Youth Cabinet is supported by Vibe UK, an organisation that helps young people have their voices heard and take action on issues they care about.
Kirsten Barton, Halton Lead at Vibe UK, said: "I am incredibly proud of every young person and the team involved in the Binimals campaign.
"They identified an issue in their community, developed a creative solution and worked hard to turn their idea into reality.
"Their passion, commitment and determination have not only helped improve the local environment but have also shown the positive impact young people can have when they are given the opportunity to be heard and supported.
"Winning this award is incredibly inspiring and I hope they feel as proud of their achievement as we do."
The award highlights the power of youth-led initiatives and the positive change that can happen when young people are empowered to take the lead.
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