Hear what difference YSS has made, directly from the people we help:

A week before my release from prison I received a visit from Michelle from YSS. Straight away, she put me at ease and explained what YSS could offer me. It was the best thing I've done. I've been given help and support to better myself and my life and I cannot thank her enough.

Since February 2017 I have made lots of changes. I now no longer get in to trouble with the police or my parents, I’ve been accepted into full time education, I have gained part time employment, sorted little things like my bank account, been signed off by Social Services for the first time in seven years but most of all I have learned to believe that I am worthy.

I am delighted to have completed my college course and achieved my CSCS card. I couldn’t have done it without the help and support YSS has given. 

I wouldn't have come in to school today if my keyworker hadn't been coming. I couldn't wait for my keyworker to come back from their holiday because they really listen to me. I've had the school counsellor and other workers but my keyworker is different and really listens.

All my needs are being met. I finally have someone who is helping me fight the battle I’ve been fighting for over 20 years now. It’s getting the continued support for as long as I need it – not for it to finish at four months. You can’t help us sort our problems in two months or four months as we have had these problems for many years. Friendly, knowledgeable staff who are contactable, available, flexible, with a wide range of experiences so they can answer your questions and sort your problems. Good we can have phone contact if I am not up to seeing someone.

It has been good to talk about my relationships and how I feel. I've now got friends who come to my house to walk to school with me. I still get cross with mum but I don't let it get to me as much.

YSS offers fantastic support for its volunteers, with regular meetings and social events to get involved in too. Furthermore, YSS is currently helping me complete a work placement module at university! I could not be more grateful for the new experiences, support and flexibility YSS has offered me and would recommend volunteering with YSS to anyone wanting to help make a difference to someone else’s life, and to their own life experience too.