Ellie receives Young Citizen of the Year Award 2025  

Ellie Halpin from Stalybridge is one of 10 winners across Greater Manchester and the selected winner for Tameside!

Hundreds of young people were nominated for the award across Greater Manchester, all received certificates, some highly commended but only 33 young people were officially shortlisted with 10 official winners.  

A big part of Ellie's nomination was linked to the consistent dedication to her voluntary work with Live Great Adventures CIC, a mental health and suicide prevention organisation based in Tameside, along with the hard work, kindness, love and support that she gives so freely without a second thought.

Ellie has been a young carer for many years and supported her mum in so many ways throughout her life too.  

At the recent ceremony held in Manchester, the award was presented by Eamonn O'Neal OBE DL High Sheriff of Greater Manchester.

The judges noted that Ellie demonstrates the spirit of social action through volunteering and caring roles, which also reflect her empathy, resilience, and dedication and noted Ellie is an exceptional young woman who demonstrates the true spirit of social action through her volunteering and caring roles.

At just 16 years old, Ellie is a core member of the Live Great Adventures team, giving her time and skills to ensure the success and safety of events that prioritise mental health and suicide prevention.

Alongside her volunteering, Ellie is also a carer for her mother, showing remarkable empathy, resilience, and dedication in all aspects of her life. As a volunteer, Ellie supports Live Great Adventures in numerous ways, including supporting event coordination, admin tasks, safety marshalling, and creating inclusive spaces for participants.

Her problem-solving skills, adaptability, and eagerness to learn have made her indispensable to the team. Ellie’s contributions have been instrumental in the success of events that have drawn up to 500 participants in one of the “shining a light on mental health” night hikes. These events often bring together individuals from vulnerable backgrounds, including those who are elderly, disabled, or experiencing poverty.

Ellie supports to ensures everyone feels included, supported, and connected. In addition to her role at Live Great Adventures, Ellie has also supported a local business on a voluntary basis during a time when they were short staffed. She stepped in to help without hesitation, demonstrating her commitment to her community and willingness to assist others. Ellie strengthens the sense of belonging among participants, breaking down barriers and creating an environment where mental health and well-being are prioritised.

Her efforts have directly contributed to increased morale among attendees, many of whom have expressed how her kindness and welcoming nature made a lasting impact. Her ability to connect with people from all walks of life and make them feel valued is a testament to her remarkable character. As a carer for her mother, Ellie shows unwavering commitment to supporting others. She helps with tasks such as cooking, household jobs, and providing emotional support through emotional support showing great empathy. Despite the challenges of being a young carer, Ellie has always approached her responsibilities with grace and selflessness.

Her determination to pass her driving test so she can support her mother even more, entirely of her own initiative, reflects her proactive and caring nature. Ellie’s personal growth over the past year has been inspiring. Once shy and reserved, she has found her confidence through volunteering and really stepped into her own. Her sense of humour, kindness, and compassion shine through in everything she does, often uplifting others during challenging moments.

Whether working as part of a team or taking the initiative to solve problems, Ellie’s actions consistently bring about positive social change and create value for the community. Ellie exemplifies what it means to serve others selflessly and with purpose. Her contributions to Live Great Adventures, her caring role, and her dedication to improving the lives of others make her a truly deserving candidate for the Young Citizen Award 2025.