Novus teams shine in the Diamond Challenge

Teams from across Novus and LTE group are celebrating their success in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Diamond Challenge after receiving their awards and presenting a cheque of £16,000 to the charity.

A total of twenty one teams took part in the challenge which saw them walk, cycle and run through rain and snow to complete 996 miles each – one mile to represent each young person in custody.

Challenge organiser Director of Operations for Novus, Sally Garrett said: “The inspiration to take on the Diamond Challenge came from the young people we met at St James’ Palace whilst receiving our licence to operate as a Duke of Edinburgh centre. Our partnership gives young people in custody the chance to grow as young adults, gaining valuable life experience while developing essential employability skills. We were determined to support the cause and enter teams in the Diamond Challenge as soon as we could.”

Each team member received a certificate and Diamond Challenge Pin from Samantha Bennie, Operations Director at the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in a celebration event held on Openshaw campus. Learners from HMP/YOI Thorn Cross made a cake especially for the event.

Accepting the cheque on behalf of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Samantha Bennie commented: “We were all really impressed with the efforts of Novus in their Diamond Challenge and we are hugely grateful to the LTE Group for matching the fundraising.

“The money will go towards the great charitable work that we do transforming the lives of young people, working specifically to ensure young people from disadvantaged backgrounds are given the opportunity to participate in the DofE.”