Luton community champion Rose Forde has been recognised with a BBC Three Counties Radio Making a Difference Award for her outstanding commitment to supporting young people and families across the town through the Street Fathers Luton initiative.
Founded by Rose in response to concerns about the challenges facing young people, including street crime, disconnection and knife violence, Street Fathers Luton has become a trusted presence in communities across the town. The organisation provides a safe and supportive environment for young people, offering guidance, encouragement and positive alternatives to criminal activity.
Through regular outreach walks and direct engagement, Rose and her team of dedicated volunteers work to build trust with young people, strengthen relationships within communities and help create pathways towards brighter futures.
Accepting the award, Rose highlighted the collective effort behind the initiative's success. She said, “It’s an amazing award, but I couldn’t have done it without my team. Only some of them are here today, and I said to them, ‘You’ve got to come up with us if we win.’ I just want to say thank you to BBC Three Counties Radio for recognising what we do. We’re trying to make a difference for young people on the streets, trying to divert them away from criminal activity by offering positive alternatives and a brighter future. This award is encouragement for us to carry on doing what we do.”
Street Fathers Luton was established with a clear mission: to empower children, young people and families who may be struggling and to provide practical support, mentorship and positive role models within the community.
The initiative has earned widespread respect for its grassroots approach, with volunteers regularly spending time in local neighbourhoods, engaging directly with young people, listening to their concerns and helping them access opportunities for personal development.
The BBC Three Counties Radio Making a Difference Award recognises individuals and organisations that have made a significant contribution to their communities. Rose’s recognition reflects not only her own dedication but also the commitment of the wider Street Fathers Luton team, whose work continues to have a positive impact on the lives of countless young people in Luton.
As Street Fathers Luton continues to grow, the award serves as a testament to the power of community-led action and the difference that dedicated volunteers can make in creating safer, stronger and more hopeful futures for the next generation.
