Spurgeons' star Mark
From helping families on the brink of despair to being a friendly face to talk to, scores of people in Littlehampton, Sussex count themselves lucky to know Mark Yates.
Spurgeons' project manager Mark has been nominated in the Star of the Community category in a local newspaper’s Community Stars Awards.
Mark, who runs Littlehampton-based LA-UK, which offers hope to children, young people and families, and encourages them to fulfil their potential, was nominated for the award by local resident Susan Smith.
“Mark spent his youth working for various charities and church projects running activities for children and young people; nothing is too much for him, every child counts,” she said.
“He works tirelessly to help others, even in his own time. Mark and his co-workers should be recognised for the amount of help they bring to this town.”
LA-UK was established in 2007 and takes its name from young people referring to Littlehampton as Lil’ Ampton, which then became shortened again to LA, with the UK standing for United Kingdom.
Mark and his team work with 80 young people, aged eight to 16, in one of the top 10% most deprived communities in the UK, who display challenging behaviours and have low educational achievements, poor family and social relationships, health issues and are at risk of, or are already, offending.
“We take young people on activities to build trust and friendship with them, provide a listening ear and help guide those who may have lost their way,” he said.
One parent whose children were helped by Mark and the LA-UK team revealed how thankful she was.
“Where to start on such a worthwhile project? I have four daughters, two of whom have attended sessions at LA-UK since September 2009. One of them has additional needs medically and the other has additional needs emotionally,” she said.
“Without exaggeration, I can honestly say LA-UK has pulled our family from the brink of despair.”
Mark admitted he was ‘humbled’ by the award nomination.
“It’s very unexpected,” he said.
“I’m supported by my wonderful wife and an absolutely fantastic team of volunteers. I hope that as someone who’s able to listen to others I do make a difference.”