PRINCE’S TRUST

Dear Readers,

you may have seen information in the media relating to the Prince’s Trust Charity and may even be aware it is celebrating its 40th Anniversary this year. However many of you may not be familiar with the work of the charity? Well the Trust was set up by Prince Charles in 1986 to assist young people between the ages of 13 to 30 years old, who may be unemployed or struggling with education and also be at risk of exclusion from work or training and further education. Since that time many thousands of young people have progressed through the various programmes and some these have come to prominence in the world of

entertainment and business.

I became involved in the charity just over two years ago after forty-plus years in industry both in the UK and overseas whilst either working for or on behalf of several major engineering organisations. With a forty year background and career in various commercial and procurement posts, I was seeking voluntary options to

utilise my business experience, qualifications and training. After initial investigations and review I was able to put myself forward for the role of Business Mentor on the Trust’s Enterprise Programme which focuses and assists young people wishing to start their own business, in the age range from 19 to 30 years old. My involvement coincided with the expansion of the Trust’s work in Gloucestershire as part the South West region and whose offices are located in Bristol. I have to say I have found the work very interesting, as well as meeting a number of the other mentors located in the Gloucestershire and South West area, all with their very own interesting histories.

In addition I was also happy to have been invited to one of the 40th Anniversary Events, being held at Buckingham Palace earlier this summer hosted by Prince Charles, where many famous ambassadors and supporters of the Trust were there in person.  So at this event as well as representing the voluntary mentors from Gloucestershire you will be pleased to know the Parish Community of Eastington was also represented.

If any of you are interested in the general work of the trust, or interested in becoming involved in one of the varied voluntary roles, as well as young people or their parents / guardians interested in being referred to the Trust. I am more than happy to have general chat with you on passing in the village.

You may also wish to review the Trust’s website: www.princes-trust.org.uk    

Regards: Jon Wren