I am a 50-year-old, married with two boys of 18 and 14. I am in the Army and have been for 28 years and have just recently participated in the marching contingent of the King’s Coronation.
I'm into walking, going the gym and hanging out in coffee shops, I have tried most sports and feel that I am more of an enthusiastic novice. I really enjoy all the opportunities serving in the Forces has given me. I think my life experiences make me an overall all-rounder when it comes to helping young people with issues they may be having.
I have volunteered now as an Independent Visitor for nearly 18 months. I saw a social media post about the role and thought that was definitely something I would be interested in.
I really enjoy spending time with young people and helping them to work towards their goals, and just have some fun!
I have helped a young person through bereavement when their grandfather died, we spent some time at the National Memorial Arboretum reflecting on his life and the memories he had of him.
It gives the young person a sense of worth, that someone wants to see them for who they are, not because they are being paid to do so but, because they care. Learning new things with my young person, spending time doing things I wouldn't normally do has been a real success.
I find being an Independent Visitor very fulfilling and although it can be quite emotional at times, I wouldn’t change a thing especially when you see your young person smile.