We helped Samuel achieve the qualifications he started whilst in prison, giving him direction, confidence and hope for the future. 

Samuel came to St Giles after an eight-year prison sentence and expressed a keen desire to progress to a Level three electrical course, having already accomplished Levels one and two while in custody. 

Samuel required assistance not only in completing his course but also in securing funding for it. His caseworker set to work exploring the potential avenues, emphasising the voluntary nature of grants. Samuel was tasked with crafting a compelling letter, narrating the circumstances that led to his incarceration, detailing his rehabilitation efforts, and outlining how the funds would catalyse positive life changes. 

His caseworker acted as a guide through a labyrinth of opportunities and meticulously compiled the necessary documentation, including letters from both Samuel and themselves. Both he and his caseworker were on tenterhooks, but four weeks after applying, Samuel was ecstatic to learn he’d been awarded a £2,900 grant for his Level three course.  

As Samuel approached the end of his course, a costly barrier suddenly appeared, in the form of an electrical car-charging exam. His caseworker submitted another application to a different charity and successfully secured a further grant. 

The impact of the support from St Giles has not only been confined to the completion of training and qualifications, but has rippled through multiple facets of Samuel’s life. His newfound financial stability has allowed him to be a better father, fostering improved family relationships.  

Now equipped with a trade, he exudes confidence in his ability to work, creating a positive effect on his family dynamics. Aspirations of becoming his own boss echo the empowerment instilled by his transformative journey with St Giles. 

Samuel acknowledges that achieving such milestones independently would have taken years. Support from St Giles has not only accelerated his professional growth but also provided the foundation for a more secure and promising future. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of support and resilience in the face of adversity.