A YOUNG man from Newlyn has been nominated for an annual charity honour from the Prince’s Trust.
Scott Richards, 20, is a contender for the AgustaWestland Flying Start Award, which recognises people who have gained employment despite “substantial personal obstacles” through a programme initiated by the trust.
FishingTrawler
Scott Richards now works as a fisherman after a charity scheme
Mr Richards had always dreamed of becoming a fisherman, like his father, but due to financial restraints had been unable to afford course fees and gain the necessary qualifications for a life at sea.
“There were hardly any opportunities for people of my age,” he said.
“It was so frustrating – I wanted to get off Job Seeker’s Allowance, I knew what I wanted to do, I just couldn’t afford the course fees.”
Having applied for around 30 jobs Mr Richards felt “disillusioned with the system,” but through the charity he explained he managed to better his chances of a fishing career.
Mr Richards was able to enrol onto the Get into Commercial Fishing programme, which helps unemployed young people pursue a career in the industry.
“I’d lost all my confidence - I thought I’d never find a job I liked,” he said.
But Mr Richards was able to overcome dyslexia concerns to pass his exams and find work on one of Newlyn’s boats.
He now works alongside his dad full-time and said he is “excited about his future”.
Julie Pilbeam, of AgustaWestland, said: “We would like to wish Scott the best of luck.
“Scott has overcome so much to get to where he is today and he should be extremely proud.”
The awards ceremony will be held on Tuesday October 15 in Bristol.
Read more: http://www.cornishguardian.co.uk/Young-Newlyn-man-nominated-award-getting-dream/story-19917117-detail/story.html#ixzz2hKphUGZg
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