I didn't really know anything about lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youth work - there had been nothing like it when I was growing up in Reading. It would have made such a difference to have a safe space to come out and to have the support of peers.
- So you hadn't trained as a youth worker?
No, I studied English Literature.
- But you took to it?
Absolutely. I started as a sessional worker for a few hours a week. I did an NVQ Level 2 in youth work with the youth service in Brighton and started courses on housing, substance misuse, and pretty much everything I could. I've done a foundation year in art and I'm using creativity as a tool for self-expression - that's very important for young people who have been told constantly that it's not okay to be who they are.
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