Learning New Skills (Jason's Story)

Jason, aged 24 years, was a heroin user for seven years and committed a string of offences to fund his drug habit. He is no longer taking drugs and has completed his hours of Unpaid Work.

Jason says .....

"I took my Level 2 in English when I was in Glen Parva and I also got Level 1 in Maths. I've done a bit of ‘top up' work while I have been on Probation.

"I asked if I could be in the workshops and make things that can raise money for charity. I think this is a good thing. I helped make garden benches and little wooden chairs for children.

"I enjoyed doing it and I got a sense of achievement out of working with the supervisors. I learnt a bit about woodwork, which will help me to do jobs at home.

I would like to finish a bricklaying course and find some proper work.

"One day I would like to have a family of my own. If my kids ever become interested in drugs, I would be able to tell them the truth about drugs - and what they did to me and my life."

* names have been changed.