The reality of how NABS helps
A lot of people come along to our events or workshops, or take a place on the Fast Forward training course. But have you stopped to think about where the money goes? Below is the story of just one of the people who has benefitted from support from NABS.
George Green *
George worked in media for 30 years. He first came to NABS in 1999. He had lost his job, split from his wife, was separated from his children and had become, to use his own words, “a destitute, homeless alcoholic”.
NABS was able to help by giving George some emergency cash to cover the cost of a few nights in a B&B while he waited for a place in rehab.
That was the last that we heard from George for 10 years.
Then in July 2009 he phoned the Helpline to ask for some financial assistance. Following 9 months in rehab, he had been offered an administrative role at the facility. Since then he has re-married, has an excellent relationship with his children and his 4 grandchildren. Four years ago, he completed a degree in English. George and his wife are both registered disabled but George is determined to continue to work. As he had found work opportunities to be limited, George decided that the best chance of long-term employment would be through studying for his MA in English which would qualify him to work as a Lecturer.
Having already made considerable financial sacrifices to complete his degree, George asked NABS if any contribution could be made towards his MA. NABS gave George a one-off payment of £750 towards his course fees, enabling him to take the next step in his career.
George said:
“I’d just like to say thank you for the generous NABS grant and the promptness of your response to my request for help. I’ve now enrolled on my MA English course and managed to buy the first few of a huge pile of course books! You’ve helped me to make the best possible start – please pass my thanks to everybody and I’ll keep you informed of my progress”