Young people dedicated to helping Nottingham’s homeless received heartfelt appreciation from a former rough sleeper speaking at Framework’s Young Supporters Awards.
Guest speaker Adam Pagett shared his experiences of homelessness and the role Framework played in helping him rebuild his life.
“Doing one small act of kindness or gesture, no matter how insignificant you may think it is, may just be the spark of light during the dark times in someone’s life.”
Seventeen individual fundraisers, three primary schools and a Scouts group have been raising money all year to help fund activities and opportunities for people living in the charity’s supported accommodation.
The young people have raised £9,400 by taking part in the Robin Hood Mini Marathon, Derby Inflatable 5K, Sleep Out challenges and an abseil, as well as organising fundraising stalls, bake sales and craft sales.
Steve Watson, Framework’s Director of Policy, Insight and Engagement, praised the young supporters, saying they were having a significant impact and helping to change lives.
After serving in the Army for six years, Adam faced challenges with his mental health, leading to substance misuse, homelessness and eventually a custodial sentence. After his release from prison, Adam’s life changed for the better when he was introduced to Framework. Through Framework’s training and support, he volunteered and then went on to work in a homeless hostel in Worksop, helping others facing the same challenges.
Adam said: “Although you may not always see the difference you make to people’s lives through the money you raise, trust me, for everything you do, every penny you raise, somebody somewhere will always feel the benefit of your efforts.”
The evening also marked the handover of the Youth Patron role. Over the past year, Lewis Smith has been an exceptional ambassador. Alongside completing the Robin Hood Mini Marathon, Junior Great North Run and Derby Inflatable 5K, Lewis organised cake sales, toy stalls, doughnut stalls and ice lolly sales while championing his own Change 4 Change campaign in schools across Nottinghamshire.
New Youth Patrons, Ciara Hough and Maggie James, will take on the role for 2026–27. Both girls are from Brookside Primary School and have been committed supporters of Framework for several years.
Maggie has already kick-started her Youth Patron year by swimming across Rutland Water, raising more than £800.
Maggie said: “I’m really honoured to take on the Framework Youth Patron role with Ciara. I think it’s going to be really fun, and I’m really excited to help people get their own front door. I really hope I can help raise awareness and money through fun events that help other young people realise they can also make a difference, however small.
“Hearing Adam speak about how hard homelessness is made me really appreciate what Framework does, and I’m looking forward to contributing to that.”
Ciara said: “I’m so happy to be taking on the role of Youth Patron and look forward to raising awareness and continuing to fundraise for Framework.”
The four Group Awards were presented to Brookside Primary School, Beeston Rylands Junior School, 3rd Netherfield Scouts Group (recognising the Beavers and Cubs) and Netherfield Primary School, along with 17 individual awards.
Any school, youth group or young person who would like to support Framework can email fundraising@frameworkha.org to find out how they can get involved and help make a difference.
