Staffordshire News Desk - Youth travel scheme wins award

[Phoenix]

An innovative travel scheme aimed at young people in Staffordshire has scooped a top national award.

Staffordshire County Council’s ‘Your Staffordshire Card’ came first in the Transport and Mobility category in The Guardian Public Service Awards 2011.

Highways and Transport lead Mike Maryon teamed up with the Youth Action Kouncil (YAK) to create the scheme.

The card, described as "bold and innovative" by the judging panel, was launched in April. It makes it easier for 11-19 year olds who live in Staffordshire to access education, training and employment by allowing them to travel for £1.

Chairman of YAK Jack Bourne, aged 17, said: “I am absolutely delighted that the Your Staffordshire Card has won this award. YAK worked very closely with the county council to get the scheme up and running and it has proved to be a major success.

“Young people are facing some tough times so it is great that the county council is giving us a helping hand to get to work, school and training as well as social activities. It is making a real difference in people’s lives which is a positive result for the whole of Staffordshire.

“The Your Staffordshire Card is a great example of the county council listening to the views of young people and acting upon them.”