Isle Of Wight YMCA Team Member Honoured Nationally For Outstanding Work With Children And Families

An Isle of Wight YMCA team member has been recognised on a national stage for his exceptional dedication to supporting local children and families.

Trevor Fitzpatrick, who has worked with YMCA Fairthorne Group — supporting communities across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight — was celebrated at the Youth Matters Awards 2025, which brought together over 110 YMCAs from across England and Wales.

Trevor received recognition for more than 20 years of dedicated service, with much of his work focused on helping young children through emotionally challenging family situations, particularly those facing long periods of separation due to parental deployment in Armed Forces families.

One of Trevor’s most notable initiatives is the now-famous “Dragon Story”, in which a small toy dragon helps a child stay connected to a deployed parent.

Each day, the child would visit the nursery to “hear” where the dragon had travelled, turning anxiety into comfort and a sense of routine.

The imaginative approach has gained national attention and is starting to influence early-years practice across the YMCA movement and Armed Forces partners.

Ross Owen, Head of Sales and Marketing at YMCA Fairthorne Group, said:

“Trevor represents everything our YMCA stands for.

"His compassion and creativity have supported hundreds of local families over the years.

"For someone so committed to our Hampshire and Isle of Wight communities to be recognised nationally is incredibly special.”

In addition to Trevor’s individual award, YMCA Fairthorne Group was highlighted for its Inclusive Classroom Profile (ICP) project, which ensures high-quality, accessible early years care for children across the region, including on the Isle of Wight.

“We are your local YMCA,” added Ross.

“Our work is rooted in our communities, and to see it acknowledged alongside the very best across England and Wales is something our whole Island can be proud of.”