For me, it is helping people in the community that is my main motivation for getting into work. I like the thought of being able to go out and fix people's problems, particularly people who may be vulnerable and really rely on me to do a good job for them. I intend to secure work as an electrician so I can become financially independent and eventually have my own family.
I first became homeless when I was released from prison two years ago. From a young age, I had fallen into the wrong crowd and became involved with drugs and gangs. At the time, it felt like easy money. However, my life became increasingly more dangerous due to the people I was mixing with and eventually the law caught up with me.
After being released from prison I was out on the streets but was fortunately then found by St Mungo's and placed in a hostel. They have been supporting me ever since to really turn my life around. Over the last year, I have completed my Level 2 in Electrical Installation and am now ready to complete my Level 3 with the help of Beam.
This is the final step of my journey to securing full time employment in a job that I love. I hope one day to have my own business in electrical maintenance so that I can become someone my local community can rely upon. It is also important to me that I am able to take care of my mother in her old age and ensure she is well looked after.