I feel part of their community and know that my time and skills are valued

It’s just the natural way of living – everyone helping each other out.

I’ve been involved in Fair Shares for three years, after volunteering at a woodland project, Gymnation, the Furniture Recycling Project and the City Farm. I don’t like office work, I prefer doing practical things that help people – Fair Shares is all about people helping each other. I’ve learned all sorts of skills – carpentry, gardening, lambing and repairing things. I feel safe, welcome and useful here

My illness no longer defines or limits my life. Fair Shares has changed my life. I can’t talk highly enough about it.

When I first came into prison 3 years ago, I had very little confidence regarding maths but I have improved to the point I’m now a mentor

I’ve really enjoyed being with younger people and been impressed with their commitment. Without this we would never have met and had the time to speak and listen to each other. This could help change people’s attitudes.

It’s a great way of getting unemployed people back into things, instead of them being made to feel redundant and losing confidence.

Times2 Maths mentoring has “brought me out of my shell, it’s helped my confidence”

Times2 Maths is good because helping people in prison  also means helping the less fortunate outside

I struggle sitting in a classroom but a little bit of maths [mentoring] in a different environment, is encouraging.

Fair Shares members have been so supportive. They have moved an ottoman for me and provided lifts and in return I have undertaken extensive sewing repairs. It’s a very effective method.

Coming here has helped me become more confident; I am more comfortable with people and I can make and do useful things to help other people, and make friends who don’t judge you. It’s made me think about becoming a social worker, or a teacher.

When I walk around town, I see so many people I know. It’s embedded me into the community

It’s been amazing because we can actually have a conversation with older people and learn things from them and at the same time learn something new about cooking, nutrition and how to budget.