Kent Deaf Children’s Society held it’s first, annual Child of Achievement Awards ceremony in Maidstone on Friday 12^th September 2008

The Child of Achievement Awards and the Kent Deaf Children’s Society (KDCS) Recognition Awards, have come about from a need to recognise the efforts and achievements of Volunteers, Supporters and most importantly of all, young Deaf people who are the reason for the Society’s existence. Deaf young people are more and more becoming part of mainstream society and quite rightly so; but they do still face barriers in education, Health care, social access and every sphere of life that hearing people often take for granted. In overcoming those barriers it takes, courage, fortitude and a determination to succeed at whatever level.

Guest of Honour for the evening was Kent County Councillor Christine Angell. Who is Deaf herself. Before presenting the awards on behalf of the society Councillor Angell said “it is a privilege to meet these young people who have achieved so much against such difficult odds but never give in and eventually reach and even surpass their goal”

Award recipients were nominated under different categories by people who knew them such as family friends, Teachers, Professionals and others. They were nominated for outstanding achievements whether personal to them or; such as Deaf young Adult of the year. Nicole Dryburgh. Nicole is Deaf Blind and despite many other obstacles including being confined to a wheelchair and cancer she has managed to become a published author as well as raising £30,000 for charity.

KDCS Chairman Ivor Riddell said at the awards ceremony “tonight has been inspirational, listening to the stories about these young people, volunteers and professionals who make such a difference. It makes me realise that the human spirit can endure and overcome against the most testing of barriers”.

The event was possible through the support and sponsorship of Kent County Council, whom KDCS work with to provide opportunities for young Deaf people and their families. KDCS are a registered charity run by parents of Deaf children, offering a social and support network as well as sign language courses, Social events such as outings and visits, trips to sign interpreted theatre performances including our annual Pantomime. We also act as a consultative and representative body for parents.

List of award categories and recipients

Category                                                       Award winners

Adult awards

Fundraiser of the Year                                  Sarah Storer

Volunteer of the year                                     Lynn Stow

Carer of the year                                           Melanie Wells

Professional of the Year                               Rosie Edge

Deaf young Adult of the year                        Nicole Dryburgh

Special recognition awards

to organisations                                         Cheriton Primary School

                                                                        KCC Children & Families Deaf  Services

Certificates of Appreciation                     Euginie

Lisa Godden

                                                                        Sarah Leone

Child of Achievement Awards               

Primary / Pre School                                    Herbie Hudson

Secondary Level                                           Catherine Lehegarat

Higher Education Award                              No nominations

Sporting Award                                             No nominations

Special Achievement Award                       Katie Chappell

Community Award                                        Charlotte Riddell

Personal Achievement Awards                   Sean Hegarty & Mark Walker