A CHARITY which helps young people who “may not have had the easiest start" is sponsoring this year's Pride of Somerset Youth Awards.

Young Somerset has been working with young people since 1997. It delivers services that are aligned to statutory provision and that enrich and support young people.

This includes their personal, social, economic or educational development.

The organisation runs the Bold & Brave store on 14 Riverside Place in Taunton, which gives people over the age of 16 the chance to gain employability skills and build their confidence in a safe, nurturing environment.

The shop opened in 2021 and is full of locally sourced products and items created by the young people who volunteer and work there.

This includes artwork by the talented Conner, who used to work at the store, depicting likenesses of Harry Potter, Thor, Spiderman and other characters.

The business also sells pre-loved books, everyday items, toiletries and more.

Beth Yetton, a former shop volunteer, was recognised for overcoming personal barriers in the 2023 Pride of Somerset Youth Awards.

Not only did she make and sell her own earrings, but she also acted as an inspiration to other people who worked at the store.

Speaking last year, a spokesperson for Young Somerset said: “Beth’s kind and caring nature is second to none.”

The charity also runs a café, which operates out of Taunton’s library. 

Enterprise manager Mark Burgess, who plays a crucial role in ensuring the two businesses thrive, said the café is a busier environment that encourages young people to work together.

He said: “We give young people a chance who may not have had the easiest start in life; we employ young people from a range of backgrounds.

“We let them take the lead.

“At the café, the young people also learn what running a business is like."

This year, the award ceremony will take place on Thursday, May 16, 6.30pm-9pm at The McMillan Theatre, Bridgwater.

Other sponsors include the Somerset County Gazette, Young Somerset, The Rotary Club of Taunton and Gravity Smart Campus, to name a few.

The award categories are as follows:

•    Art & Culture Award: 
•    Care Award: 
•    Championing Positive Mental Health Award: 
•    Charity / Volunteer Hero: 
•    Community Hero: 
•    Environmental Award: 
•    Outstanding Courage Award: 
•    Sandy Padgett Award: 
•    Sporting Achievement Award:  
•    Young Person of the Year Award.