Alison was initially referred to the HELP project in April 2009, a lone parent with 2 young children under 4 yrs and wanted to study a course that would enable her to find employment.  Her priority was to find training and employment that would lead to a career but she faced considerable barriers with 2 young children. 

She had an interest in film and drama which she wanted to pursue but was unsure how to.  After some discussions with her HELP Adviser she narrowed her focus on studying drama with the long term goal of a career teaching this.

With this in mind she applied to 3 local colleges in 2010.  Alison had to audition for a place on the course and perform a short piece in front of the course tutors.  She was offered a place on a BTEC National in Performing Arts Course at Ealing, Hammersmith and West London College and started the course in Sept 2010.  She was very nervous about starting the course; returning to education after a break of 8 years and worried how her piers would take to her.

After only a few weeks on the course she feedback that it was the best thing she has even done, her initial fears were dispelled when she was welcomed by her class mates.  Her oldest daughter is now in full time education and her youngest daughter attends the college crèche while she attends classes.

Through the HELP Project Alison has taken the first step towards realising her goal of becoming a drama teacher. 

After 3 months on the course Alison needed access to a PC or laptop at home to do research and coursework.  She firstly approached the college and student services but they were unable to help her fund this.  The HELP Adviser researched possible funders and together with the client applied to Crisis Changes Lives for a grant to cover the cost of this.  Crisis Changing Lives grants are designed to enable individuals to take more control of their lives and help them achieve their career goals by funding tools or equipment to do a course and move towards work. 

On Christmas Eve Alison received a letter from Crisis to tell her she had been awarded £350 under the scheme to purchase the necessary equipment and she was ‘over the moon’.

‘HELP has helped me realise my potential in my higher education studies.  I am looking forward to achieving my goals and providing my children with a brighter future.  I would like to thank all the team for all your help.’