People Stories
Our mission is to support people and communities to prosper and thrive. Here you can read real-life stories about people who have benefited from National Lottery funding; taking part in projects that have broadened their horizons, improved their communities, and changed their lives for the better.
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“You’re very much left alone. We’re so lucky to have Dementia Forward”
23 October, 2023
With experience of caring for her mum who has advanced dementia, Trish recognised small signs of the condition in her husband Mike. Read more -
“Restoring hope to those who have none” – The pivotal work of West Midlands Anti Slavery Network
1 February, 2023
Hannah Periton speaks about her pride in the work that she and the West Midlands Anti-Slavery Network do. Read more -
How nature can help people ‘open up like a flower’ after dementia diagnosis
21 January, 2022
After his dementia diagnosis, Bill went along to The Sensory Trust, which facilitates activities for young people as well as those with dementia. Here is his story. Read more -
I just wanted to make my mum proud
9 September, 2021
Charity manager devoted to helping Sunderland’s marginalised communities gets royal recognition. Read more -
‘It saved my mental health’ - Josh follows his dream of becoming a blacksmith
22 June, 2021
‘I suffer from depression; Hereford MAKE is the only thing that gives me hope’ says Josh Fincher. Read more -
Swansea volunteer using his experience to help others
15 December, 2020
Richard is a volunteer at the Congolese Development Project in Swansea, helping people who, like him, have just arrived in the country Read more -
The pen pal scheme connecting children in hospital to the outside world
7 December, 2020
Ward Wire, the brainchild of Fahad, medical student and former volunteer at Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospital, is helping children in long-term wards communicate with people their own age. Read more -
Volunteering is just the beginning
1 December, 2020
Youth worker Jade owes her blossoming career to volunteering. Just three years after volunteering at the YMCA East Surrey, she’s now a full-time employee, coordinating and running sessions for adults with additional needs. Read more -
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How a Torbay couple found love in lockdown
29 September, 2020
Companionship through the coronavirus crisis led to love blossoming for a couple who had sworn off romance. Read more
