Shaw Trust stories

Every year we transform the lives of thousands of people. Here, some of our clients share why this Christmas will be better than last year.

Jerry's story

Jerry had been a security guard for a long time. After leaving his job, he was in low spirits and needed motivation to find something new.

Shaw Trust staff in Ipswich sensed Jerry needed a new challenge and saw how his skills could easily be used in a new role. After a job trial with Asda, Jerry stood out as a hard worker and was offered a part-time position.

"I can now enjoy my life, spend time with my son at weekends and go cycling. Having a job means I don't have to worry as much about finances as I did before. 

I don't think I would be in paid employment without Shaw Trust's help. Christmas is going to be so much better than I thought it would be." ~ Jerry

Anne's story

Anne came to the Shaw Trust Glasgow centre with her self-esteem through the floor. She told the team about her difficult past and how she had given up work to nurse her mum through terminal cancer.

Anne had a good work background and qualifications, and was keen to work. The team knew what she needed more than anything was a confidence boost.

"I was feeling a bit out of my depth about job hunting and my confidence was at an all-time low. Shaw Trust staff knew that with the right support I could move on. Nobody wanted this more than me. Not just because I needed the money, but to gain back my sense of purpose.Without a job, I would dread family and friends celebrations, Christmas being the worst. 

Shaw Trust made me feel like I belonged.  I would like to thank for their support and belief in me. My future now looks more positive and brighter." ~ Anne

Scott's story

Scott left college when he was 17. Like many young people not in work or further education, he became unmotivated. When he came to Shaw Trust, he wanted a job. But he didn't know where to start. 

The Shaw Trust Basingstoke team saw his potential. Scott started going to job clubs every day, learning interview skills, getting job hunting support and building his confidence. 

Scott had a successful interview with B&M Stores and was offered a job he loves. He wants to work hard and has ambitions to progress within the company.

"I've just received my second payslip and am looking forward to treating my family this Christmas.

Having money for Christmas is a fabulous change for me as it means I can get my family presents that they will like and enjoy!" ~ Scott

Tommy's story

Tommy had a road traffic accident seven years ago. He lost sight in his right eye and still continues to have fits. He also has short term memory loss so needs to learn new skills through practicing them repeatedly.

When he first came to see the Shaw Trust Taunton team, he was looking for cleaning work as he felt this would match his capabilities. But his real passion was in tinkering with bicycles. The team tapped into his interests, encouraging him to gain a bike mechanic qualification.

Initially bike mechanic work was hard to find, but Tommy never gave up. His confidence grew and grew until a work placement in the Bike Hut at Halfords paid off and he was offered a permanent job at the Bridgwater store. He has been allocated his own bike building and repair station and has been promised further training to develop his skills.

"This Christmas I will be busy rushing here and there as I will be working and spending time with my son. 


I am really happy to be in work as I have been able to buy my son what he really wants. I am walking round with a big smile on my face knowing how excited he will be on Christmas Day when he opens his presents. 


Thank you Shaw Trust for helping to do this." ~ Tommy

Jamie's story

Jamie had a miracle turnaround. From the person he was when he first arrived in the Shaw Trust Kidderminster centre to the person who found paid employment eight weeks later.

Burdened with depression, anxiety, low confidence and low self-esteem, Jamie was at a real low when he walked through the door. But with daily support from the team, there was a dramatic change in his demeanour.

Within eight weeks Jamie found self-belief and was more motivated. The reward? An offer of a job a kitchen assistant in a local hotel.

"I'll be so much happier this Christmas. Now that I'm working I have a reason to get up in the morning and am more motivated and positive. I finally feel like me again. 

Having extra money will allow me to go out and treat my girlfriend and even start saving for a much needed holiday! 

I would like to thank everyone who helped me, for making it all possible." ~ Jamie