James

“I lived with my mum, dad and my seven brothers and sisters. I was always craving attention. I spent lots of time just dossing around and getting in trouble with the police. I was sat at home, getting bored out of my head when I decided to call YG and they got me onto a course straight away.

“YG was different to everything else I had done. It had a chilled atmosphere and I felt relaxed which made it easier to learn. The staff were so supportive, even when I thought my past with the police had caught up with me, they stood by me.

“My personality completely changed whilst I was at YG. My behaviour improved, I feel more mature and more settled than ever. It was during my time at YG that I was offered the chance of an apprenticeship in catering. I know I wouldn’t have been able to stick at the job without my experience at YG. It taught me all about being part of a team. Without that you could never survive in a kitchen.

“I am proud of how my life has changed. If I hadn’t got in touch with YG I don’t know where I would be now – I would have a massive criminal record that’s for sure! I realise now how important it is to take your chance while you can, otherwise nothing is ever gonna change.”