Ex-offender helps those in crisis

James was supported by Sharon Hunt VPM for ex-offenders and volunteered  his time for Crisis at Christmas in Stratford, East London this holiday season.  Despite being long-term unemployed prior to working with Sharon, James got the opportunity to expand his communication and people skills by carrying out a variety of roles at the homeless centre.  He spent time befriending the guests, helping to serve food and helping to keep the centre clean and tidy, as well as checking in the guests.
 
‘One of the main reasons James wanted to volunteer,’ Sharon explains, ‘was to alleviate the isolation he feels during his day to day life; this placement has opened new doors for James as he has been invited by Crisis to attend their Skylight Centre in order to explore different courses that will help with his progression.  As a thank you for all of his hard work, James was also invited by Crisis to visit another of their centres in Kings Cross, where he got the opportunity to attend an all expenses paid trip to the Arsenal Emirates Stadium tour – a massive bonus for a huge Arsenal fan!’
James said,  ‘I can’t believe you have found me two placements so quickly which matched exactly what I am looking for.  I signed up with other organisations that promised to find me something and they never did.  Thank you to Sharon and WWV.’
This volunteer's name has been changed for privacy purposes.