Stuart GouldenAs part of the York800 celebrations, Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF) has launched a photography competition to capture and celebrate York as a city of caring.
As the competition opens, JRF are calling for photos taken in and around York that show the city’s caring side – whether that’s caring for the community or the local environment, or as part of one’s job.
This year marks 800 years since the city was granted a Royal Charter by King John in 1212, allowing York to take charge of its own affairs by electing a council, creating the post of mayor, and giving a voice to its people.
The city wants to get its residents, businesses and visitors involved in the year-long celebration, to understand the city’s unique past, create a sense of belonging in the city of today, and making a step change for the future. As part of its many activities, York 800’s photographic competition will be used to show that York is a city that ‘cares’, and which has used its freedom to create a place where citizens thrive because of the kindness and support of others.
The idea of ‘carers’ of York could include a whole range of things: someone picking up litter, or our rubbish collectors; shopkeepers who play a community role; lollipop ladies, or someone simply helping another person across the road.
Jo Pickles, Marketing Officer at JRF, said: “The vision is to pull together a range of images and perspectives about how we care for our city, its citizens and our communities, to promote York as a city of caring. Judges will be looking for an emotional connection with the image above all else.”
People can enter the competition by visiting www.jrf.org.uk/york-800, uploading their picture and telling the story behind its connection to York. The competition is open to photographers of all ages and abilities.
The winners will receive an iPad 3 (or the equivalent in vouchers to the value of £400) and the opportunity to have their photo displayed in a public space in York.
The deadline for entries is Friday 31 August so get snapping!
