A REDDITCH youth worker has won a national award for his commitment to developing and engaging in partnerships around the world.

Tom Smallman, aged 21, the participation and engagement worker for YMCA Worcestershire, was honoured at YMCA England’s national Youth Matters Awards with the coveted YMCA Global Link Award at a celebration in London.

The ceremony was hosted by comedian and presenter Richard Blackwood.

Mr Smallman has represented the YMCA at a local and national level on various international projects and worked hard to encourage other young people to follow in his footsteps and participate in international work that will make a difference.

Youth Matters is YMCA England’s national awards ceremony which recognises the exceptional skills and achievements of young people across the YMCA. It also celebrates the vital work that YMCAs throughout the country deliver every day to help change the lives of young people and give them a brighter future.

Mr Smallman was presented with his trophy and certificate at Church House in Westminster by last year’s winner Lewis Barkway, in front of an audience including singer and Youth Matters performer Leanne Jarvis from The Voice, MPs, trustees, and YMCA young people and staff from across England.

Mr Smallwood said: "To be given the Global Link Award is an incredible achievement and privilege. My life has totally changed since working for YMCA Worcestershire and I am so grateful for all the support I have received.”

Sarah Harris, community development manager at YMCA Worcestershire, said: “We are incredibly proud that Tom has been given an award in recognition for his work.

"International work is very important to us at Worcestershire YMCA and we feel honoured to have been able to celebrate Tom's journey so far.”