A borough youth group has been honoured at the Houses of Parliament for helping young people with housing and recreational clubs.

New Choices for Youth, based in Claughton Road, Plaistow, won the award for ‘Best Contribution by a Community Group’ at charity Kids Count’s Inspiration Awards.

It was presented by Sir Mike Penning MP and is given to a community group which has fostered the wellbeing and development of young people in its area.

As well as running a BMX club, youth club and supporting vulnerable young people into housing, New Choices for Youth runs the accredited ‘evolving leaders’ course.

It trains young people to be community leaders and they finish with a qualification that can contribute to their UCAS applications or future career prospects.

The awards ceremony was held on December 5 at the House of Commons with a welcome delivered by Justine Greening MP, Secretary of State for Education.