Inspiring in Prison

These past few weeks we have been working in a men's prison in Staffordshire, helping a small group of men to improve their confidence and self-esteem through becoming better communicators. One man told me that he was determined to leave prison a better man than he was when he went in. Another man told us about his horrific childhood with a mother who was an alcoholic and drug addict. An intelligent man, he knew no other life than crime growing up, but is in prison for an indeterminate period as an IPP prisoner. He has never had a passport, never been abroad and never had a proper relationship due to his criminal lifestyle, but is determined to change. He just needs a lot of support and understanding. I am hoping to get the opportunity to work with him again soon.

Working in prison is a huge privilege and most people are so appreciative, it's great to be making a difference.

Youth Group in North Solihull

Heart-Shaped Decisions CIC has been working with Ways for Wellbeing UK CIC on a new youth group for 17-25 year olds for the past few months. We have started the group and are now working on funding it!

If you had told me even 5 years ago that I would be applying for funding to run a youth group I would have said you were crazy, but I have written three funding bids in the past two weeks, and there will be more to come.

This week I also went to speak to the Prince's Trust group in Chelmsley Wood, near where I live, to tell them about my life story and invite them to join our group. We are passionate about helping young people to make the right decisions in their lives and build worthwhile and successful lives for themselves.

Corporate Sponsorship

We are very keen to secure some corporate sponsorship for our work in prisons. Helping those in prison to build confidence and self-esteem is crucial for when they are released and looking for work - we are interested in talking to anyone who could support our prison work, especially in the West Midlands.

Finally..

Now that Spring is here, hopefully everyone will start to feel a little more positive. Heart-Shaped Decisions wishes you a great second quarter of 2024 - we will be back with more news soon!