Beth Chambers, YMCA Northumberland
Beth found it extremely difficult engaging with the education system and spent time in various alternate education services. Beth really struggled with her behaviour, temper and has had various negative interactions with the local police. She spent a lot of her time with a small group of girls who caused huge amounts of antisocial behaviour in the local community. Beth also struggles with confidence and has often felt miss-understood, often reacting to a situation or problem in a loud manner shouting and acting out in a verbal way.
Through a friend, Beth was introduced to the YMCA Y-Drop In project, where she very quickly became a regular participant in the various youth sessions. Over the course of her engagement, she worked with the youth team and began to talk about her behaviour, how she responded to things and about her aspirations of becoming a hair and beauty therapist.
Beth was encouraged to volunteer and has since represented YMCA Northumberland at a number of events. She was then nominated, and subsequently won the annual Frank Dawes Award, recognising incredible growth in a young person.
Beth’s transformation over the last few years has been noticed by staff, volunteers and more importantly other young people. She has recently entered the workforce, securing a part-time job while also continuing her studies. Everyone at YMCA that knows Beth is so proud of her and continue to support her future ambitions.
