Broadcaster and health campaigner Anne Diamond has accepted an invitation to become a Patron of motor project charity SKIDZ.
Seasoned broadcaster Anne, who hosts a weekday programme on BBC Radio Berkshire and regularly writes for the Daily Mail, says: “SKIDZ is a charity which is doing commendable work with young people – particularly those who are disadvantaged or at risk within the Thames Valley – by providing specialist training in motor mechanics.
“SKIDZ is making an important contribution by giving lots of young people the opportunity to learn valuable skills through their innovative courses which can set them on the path to a career in the motor industry. SKIDZ tell me there are over 1.2 million youngsters who are regarded as NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) and this charity is working hard to address this issue.
“I’m delighted to accept this prestigious invitation to become a Patron and will help SKIDZ in an ambassadorial role to spread the word about their remarkable efforts and their exciting plans to extend operations across the UK over the next few years.”
Graham Andrews, Chief Executive Officer of SKIDZ, said: “Anne Diamond is a high-profile journalist and campaigner. We are absolutely delighted that Anne has agreed to become a SKIDZ patron to help us broaden awareness of our charity. Patrons play an enormously important role as our advocates and our ambassadors, championing our work and encouraging others to support us.”
Originally set up in 1997 in response to a surge in car crime in the High Wycombe area, SKIDZ’ focus was on disadvantaged, disengaged and disaffected 13-16 year olds whom it sought to re-connect with mainstream education via motor vehicle studies delivered in an adult environment.
Since then SKIDZ has steered more than 8,000 youngsters to a brighter future in the region. The courses have proved so popular that they have now been extended to allow local schools, colleges and adults to access a range of specialist courses including NVQ studies.
Now SKIDZ is proposing to roll out courses nationwide, based on the successful template developed in High Wycombe, with the ambition of providing ‘accessible-to-all’ motor vehicle education and training across the UK.
Mr Andrews said: “Our mission is to provide motor vehicle education and training that is accessible to all through a UK network of sustainable and self-sufficient centres of excellence.” SKIDZ has earmarked Belfast as the next base to expand the charity.
To find out more about SKIDZ, visit: www.SKIDZ.org.uk.
