The Girls’ Brigade of England and Wales has been awarded the Freedom of Liverpool.
Part of a global fellowship operating in Europe, Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and Australia, it is more than 130 years old and one of the few remaining Christian uniformed youth organisations.
They work with girls and young women between the ages of 4-18, but also with boys in areas where there’s no other youth provision for them, developing life skills and building confidence.
Currently in Liverpool they have around 150 members plus 40 volunteers. The oldest of the groups currently running in the city began in 1948, and the newest in 2019.
In total, they have thousands of incredibly loyal and committed volunteers. A total of 376 have more than 50 years of service, 528 have more than 40 years, and 932 have more than 20 years of service.
Lord Mayor, Councillor Barbara Murray, said: “It is a huge honour to present the Girls’ Brigade of England & Wales with the Freedom of the City of Liverpool.
“Their volunteers make a significant contribution to life in the city and a difference to the lives of so many young people.
“Many congratulations on their achievements over many decades – the award is richly deserved.”
Chief Executive of the Girls’ Brigade of England & Wales, Judith Davey-Cole, said: “The reason our volunteers have “staying power” is that we can clearly see the profound and lasting impact that we have on the lives of children and young people, and the positive contribution that they make to their communities and to society.
“Our groups meet weekly during term time, and many attend camps and residentials during the school holidays. We also run online sessions for young women from 14-18 on things like “having a safe night out” or “staying safe in the digital world”.
“We are incredibly proud that our Merseyside District has been awarded the Freedom of the City of Liverpool and the whole of The Girls’ Brigade England & Wales is celebrating today. This is such a tremendous honour and one that is so well-deserved by our wonderful volunteers.”
