I was previously involved in a similar in 2023 and I left due to huge gulfs which were not repairable in terms values ethos and ways of working of my colleagues. I loved working with the young people who came predominantly from asylum seeking backgrounds. I enjoyed learning all about their different cultures, and some things that struck me particularly with some was their family values and their relationship with religion/church.
I spent many a happy day and late night sometimes chatting with these wonderful kids as we ate food together. We spoke about their stories of home, their journeys to the UK, some which were harrowing to say the least, and religion sport whatever came up for discussion. I am often struck by the resilience of these young people, considering the trauma some of them have experienced, and I believe that it may come from the support of their families and extended families and community. They loved cooking and sharing with others and this was a lovely thing to witness. We used to have cooking nights when a meal would be cooked from a particular country and we would all share it. We would have takeaways now and again and it was a great way of getting everyone together. I had a wonderful relationship with many of the young people I supported and was getting to know others when I left which was a bit sad
However the experience has motivated me to go again and set up my own business where I can again have a direct impact on the lives of some young people and give them support with learning some life skills, education, training while having fun and building trusting relationships. A home where people feel safe is for me a fundamental right of all humans, and I want to contribute to this way. I have over 20 years experience supporting young people and adults and I have realised it's what I'm good at. I invest a lot in community and social projects on a local, national and global level and I intend to reinvest any money I raise here, in both the young people and other worthy projects, perhaps social housing as it is something close to my heart. The business I wish to set up takes a bit of effort and finance to get it off the ground and while I am clearly stating it is for profit , it is also about giving value and doing the right thing. Thank you to anyone who takes the time to read this and a special thank you to anyone who donated. I will work to ensure it is well spent