Cash prize on offer to young writing talent in essay competition
Promising young writers are being reminded that the deadline is fast approaching to enter The Priory Ryan McKay Prize non-fiction writing competition, which aims to raise awareness of positive mental and physical health among young people.
The Priory Ryan McKay Prize is a national annual competition with the chance for budding writers to win £1000. Young people aged 13-18 are encouraged to write an essay on a set topic; the title for 2010 is ‘Eat to Live, Live to Eat’. Each year the topics highlight mental and physical health among young people, especially the effects of eating disorders.
Ryan McKay was treated successfully in the Priory Hospital Glasgow for an eating disorder, but tragically died in a car accident in August 2007, aged 22. His parents wanted to work with the Priory as the group had supported Ryan in his time of need.
Last years winner was 18-year-old Ben Porter from Kent, who drew from his own experiences to write an emotive piece under the topic ‘Happy with the skin you’re in’.
The award and prize, presented in Ryan’s memory, helps to raise awareness of positive mental and physical health among young people, who are most at risk of eating disorders.
Ryan’ s father, Robert McKay said: “ We wanted to do something in memory of our son that could potentially help many young people like him, who are suffering from eating disorders. We felt we needed to highlight the fact that these youngsters are not alone in what they are going through and help is available to them. The treatment and support that Ryan and the whole family received from The Priory was invaluable.
“We appreciate all essays that are entered, as they are always very emotive and clearly a lot of thought has gone into them. We hope the competition receives many entries and look forward to reading the winning entry.”
Matthew Franzidis, chief operating officer at the Priory Group said: “The competition is a really fitting way to honour Ryan’s memory and we are proud to work with Ryan’s parents on this project.
“We hope that asking young people to write essays on these types of subject will stimulate debate and raise awareness of mental and physical health issues. Hopefully it will also encourage people to talk about problems which may be affecting them and they will ultimately feel able to seek advice and guidance to overcome them.”
The competition is open to 13-18 year olds. Essays must be typed, double spaced and of 1,200 words. Entries must be emailed to prioryryanmckayprize@priorygroup.com and be received by Tuesday 31st August 2010.
More information can be found at: www.priorygroup.com/prioryryanmckayprize
More related news »