Young volunteer Noah wins young person of the year award
12 Aug 2026
3 min read
Year 7 student Noah and Beacon Dementia and Wellbeing tell us about Noah’s experience volunteering with them, and his recent award win.
Beacon Dementia and Wellbeing is celebrating after its youngest volunteer, Noah, was named Young Person of the Year at a special community awards evening in Rossendale, East Lancashire.
Noah, a Year 7 student, volunteers during his school holidays at The Beacon Shed, where he supports people living with dementia to take part in activities they enjoy and feel confident doing. Through his kindness, patience and genuine curiosity, Noah has become a popular and trusted member of the Beacon team.
His award nomination recognises the lasting difference he makes to the lives of people living with dementia and their families. Noah takes time to understand each individual’s personality, abilities and emotional needs, adapting his communication style to help people feel comfortable, valued and included.
One Beacon team member said:
Noah has an incredible ability to connect with people living with dementia. He sees the person first, always.
A family carer added:
Stephen always looks forward to seeing Noah — it’s always extra special for him.
Noah’s compassion and emotional intelligence were highlighted as qualities that set him apart. His dedication goes beyond the hours he gives as a volunteer; he helps people feel respected, confident and genuinely valued.
Beacon Dementia and Wellbeing said it was an emotional and proud moment to hear the recognition Noah received during the awards evening:
Noah is a shining example of the positive impact one young person can have. He embodies everything this award represents, and we are incredibly proud of him.
We asked Noah some questions about his experience volunteering with Beacon.
What made you first want to start volunteering with Beacon?
My mum started working for them and asked if I wanted to go up in the summer holidays as the shed was in the park.
What are some of the activities you do as part of your volunteering?
Puzzles, jigsaws, reminiscence box, walking and looking around the museum.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering with Beacon?
The people I get to spend my time with.
What have you learned from volunteering, and do you think this will help you when you start working when you're older?
I have learnt about dementia; I have noticed that people with dementia can still be happy and enjoy things. I think it will help me communicate with lots of different people when I do go to work.
Would you like to work in the social care sector when you're older?
I am unsure what I want to do yet as I am still only 12. I do like helping people though.
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