STAFF at a homeless support charity has received an award from The High Sheriff of Wiltshire.

Penelope Marland handed the award to staff at Amber, a charity in Trowbridge, for their dedication to helping young people in crisis transform lives.

Amber received a £2,000 donation to accompany the award from The High Sherriff’s fund and will be supported at their centre.

Amber needs to raise around half of its funds from the community so that they can continue to provide a safe place to stay for some of the most marginalised in society, giving them all the emotional and practical support that they need to re-build their lives.

Paul Rosam, chief cxecutive at Amber said: “Receiving this award has been such a boost to all of us here at Amber.

“It really is testament to the dedication of the team, who work around the clock to support the young people that stay with us.

“We are not a large charity and we wouldn’t be here without the support of the community so the endorsement and of course the donation mean a great deal to us.”

Penelope Marland, High Sheriff of Wiltshire said: “Amber helps young people turn around their lives in a different way to hostels.

“Amberteers learn skills that will help them find employment, understand teamwork and become responsible and confident members of society.

“I am delighted to be able to make this High Sheriff Award to the staff there – they are making an outstanding contribution to the Wiltshire community.”

The Award and donation were made at a visit to Amber by Penny Marland, representatives from the Wiltshire Community Foundation, Angus Macpherson MBE, Police and Crime Commissioner, Inspector James Williams, Wiltshire Police, Mayor Deborah Halik and Gail Chilcott, Wiltshire Magistrates Bench Chair.

Guests spent time with the young people supported by Amber, hearing about the challenges that they have faced and the support that Amber provides.