Simon

Having been in trouble with the law and a drug user for 26 years, Simon entered a residential rehabilitation centre for five months in 2009. On leaving, Simon realised that he needed to re-train, so he was referred to a Level 2 course in Service User Network Development in Adult Learning. From there, Simon completed an NVQ Level 2 course in Health and Social Care, and began volunteering at CRI and Blenheim CDP

Simon completed many training courses whilst volunteering, including mentoring, diversity and equality and assertiveness and crack training. He also completed an NVQ Level 3 course in Advanced Drug Awareness.

"I started doing this type of training to re-educate myself so I could get a job and feel part of society," said Simon. "Learning has transformed my life as I now feel I am a contributing member of society, and I am able to give my experience and knowledge back to the community. With the training I received, I quickly learned to like, love and respect myself and others. I am a living example of how people can change."

* Name and photo has been changed to protect the identity of the service users who shared their stories with us.