I was born into a close and loving family but my parents were also using drugs so they've been in my life as long as I can remember. I started taking drugs at 14.
The streets, hostels, drug dens - the last 25 years, I’ve managed to stay everywhere apart from somewhere I could call home. One day, just before my 40th birthday, I knew I was done. I had to change and I wanted to change.
Since then, I’ve been through rehab and remained totally abstinent from drugs and alcohol for over three and a half years.
I’m now back in touch with my family having worked hard to regain their trust and show them how committed I am to turning my life around. I'm also determined to be the best dad and most positive role model I can be for my daughter. That means never drinking and taking drugs again. It means having a career and, one day, my own flat.
I want to work with boilers because I think it's a fairly recession-proof sector - people will always need working radiators! I've already passed my City & Guilds Level 2 in plumbing and my gas foundation. But I can’t afford the work placement to complete my portfolio.
Completing my portfolio will let me progress to the qualification to get a job as a gas engineer - a fantastic, well-paid job - and move out my hostel. I can't wait!