Matthew’s Story (disadvantaged young people's project)

'It's changed everything ... The way I look at things has changed totally from being out there, from seeing how people live out there, realising it's not just you who sometimes has it tough ... and meeting other people on the course, it’s just good to know that everyone has a past and you’re not the only one.’

Currently living in a YMCA, Matthew, aged 24, admitted he had spent much of his adult life involved in petty crime, before being sentenced to 90 days in prison, as the result of a number of driving offences. He served 45 days over the Christmas and New Year period – time when he missed his friends dearly. When he was released, in an attempt to make a fresh start, Matthew chose to move from his home town, but he struggled to find work and put down roots. With Natalie’s support and encouragement Matthew began volunteering with BTCV Cheshire, at the Windmill Hill site where he was involved on a weekly basis in rhododendron clearance from the site. Volunteering with BTCV gave Matthew his first piece of work experience since leaving prison. Natalie arranged the volunteering placement with BTCV for Matthew so that he would have relevant experience to apply for a place on Operation New World, a skills course and habitat survey run by a charity determined to give young people a real chance to improve their prospects, whilst benefitting a community far away from their own. Matthew took part in 5 surveys of different areas of the Fuerteventura Island and recorded and presented his research.

‘The way I look at things is much more positive now, I have been down in the dumps for so long, but not anymore ... I have even gone and got myself a job ... it’s just like wham bham everything has come together since doing this.'

Mary-Lynn's Story (disadvantaged young people's project)

'I am living in my own flat but I am feeling isolated and can’t cope. I moved recently from shared semi-independent accommodation and I am now struggling being on my own.'

Mary-Lynn, aged 17, worked with Natalie for several months to build her confidence. Taking into account Mary-Lynn’s interest in horses, Natalie arranged a trial session volunteering for a disability charity at her local stables. Mary-Lynn is now volunteering on a weekly basis at the stables. She feels as though she has gained a real sense of purpose and is happily settling in to independent living.

'I love it!'

Erica's Story (disadvantaged young people's project)

'It has really increased my confidence and helped me to talk out more in groups; it was a great experience because you helped me find somewhere which suited me really well.'

Aged 15, Erica spent two weeks volunteering at an English language camp for teenagers in Spain. Now studying for her A-levels at college, Erica is far more confident. She now feels able to speak out in class and has become an active participant in her studies. WWV works with young carers to find fun volunteering projects, giving them a break from the monotony of caring and enabling them to build valuable skills for their future.

Branstaff's Story (ex-offenders project)

'My son had just finished a life sentence and I have another son who has just got five years for firearms offences. I decided I wanted to be respected for doing something good. Tania believed in me and gave me hope. I wouldn't be where I am now without her help.'

Ex-offender, Branstaff, with the support of WWV's Ex-offenders VPM, volunteered for ex-offenders charity the Pecan Trust. Having been moved by the work of the charity, Branstaff went on to form his own not-for-profit organisation, Branufoundations which finds accommodation for ex-offenders.

Students' Stories (WWVs work in schools)

'I walked into the school assembly expecting to gain nothing from it, but came out relishing the prospects of volunteering in my community.' Scott, London Academy

'I was actually quite amazed at how interesting your presentation was. I would definitely not have wanted to volunteer if it wasn't for you.' Waseem, Barnet College

'I anticipated it to be an average talk, but it was far better than expected. I really like the way they spoke to us as if we were adults not children and explained to us how important volunteering can be not only to us, but those around us. I found it a 'fun' talk. The stories were fantastic and the pictures really enhanced the likeability factor of volunteering, it definitely made me want to get volunteering even more.' Rima, Stanmore College