Youth support worker awarded MBE for services to restorative justice

Chairman David Munro met Ellie Paterson for tea to congratulate her on receiving an MBE for services to restorative justice. Click image to download.

An employee of Surrey County Council’s Youth Support Service has been awarded an MBE to honour her for giving young offenders a second chance.

Ellie Paterson, who has been working in the service for nearly 30 years, was recognised for helping young offenders make amends for their crimes by taking part in community projects or making peace with their victim.

The restorative justice projects include making memory boxes of babies who pass away at St. Peter’s Hospital, maintaining historical artefacts at Brooklands Museum and growing fresh fruits and vegetables that are harvested and given to a local day centre.

Ellie Paterson MBE, Community Placement Manager at Surrey Youth Support Service, said: “A massive amount of work goes on throughout the service and although I’ve been awarded the MBE, it’s 100% down to the hard work of everyone in the service and being recognised makes me very proud.”

Council chairman David Munro said: “Everyone at Surrey County Council is delighted that Ellie has been honoured for her magnificent achievements. This award recognises how the Youth Support Service works tirelessly to improve the lives of thousands across the county and we all very proud of Ellie and her team.”