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Growing up in Liverpool, David skipped school to avoid bullying and tensions at home. David struggled to get any qualifications, but he’d always dreamed of joining the Army. His experience in the cadets and Territorial Army helped him stand out and he was accepted.
David’s career in the Army unfolded in a very different way to how he had expected. Having been in Afghanistan for just eight days, the vehicle he was driving was attacked by a suicide bomber and in that moment David’s whole life was turned upside down. In addition to breaking his shoulder in five places and his back twice, David suffered horrific nightmares about the attack.
He needed a fresh start and admirably decided to use his experience growing up in a tough Liverpool neighborhood, to help young people living through similar experiences.
David was offered an opportunity with The Prince’s Trust Fairbridge programme to work as a Development Tutor, which was funded by Help for Heroes. In the role, David helps young people who are some of the most vulnerable in society; they’ve often been excluded from school and battle emotional, social and mental health issues.
A lot of them lack structure and discipline in their lives. David’s job is to break down barriers; to help them to tackle new challenges and build up the trust and confidence they lack. It’s given him a new sense of purpose and he loves helping teach children to reach their full potential;
“That day in Afghanistan showed me that you can’t take anything for granted. You never know what might be round the corner. I strive to live each day to the full and help others do the same.
If you think you’ve got something to give to young people who are struggling, you should give The Prince’s Trust a call. It’s one of the best things I ever did.”
To find out how to get involved, call The Prince’s Trust Team on 07940 725 500.
