Brett’s volunteering story: Growing in confidence and gaining experience

When Brett first came to Ongo, he was facing one of the most difficult periods of his life. Having lost both his Dad and Grandad within a short space of time, he was struggling with his confidence, lacked routine and was unemployed.

Living in supported accommodation meant he had never been in a position to seek work, and he needed help to rebuild his confidence and take a positive step forward.

Ongo supported Brett into an eight-week voluntary placement at the Cancer Research UK shop in Scunthorpe. The placement held personal meaning for Brett, as his Grandad had passed away from cancer, and it gave him a sense of purpose at a time when he needed it most.

Although he was keen to start, he was initially nervous about working in retail, particularly using the till and interacting with customers. However, with ongoing support from shop manager Paul and Ongo Skills Coach Vickie, Brett quickly began to settle in.

He received patient, tailored guidance to help him learn new tasks and build confidence at his own pace. Over time, he overcame his initial anxieties, including learning to use the till and take on customer-facing responsibilities. Tasks he once found challenging, such as pricing stock, became part of his daily routine.

What was meant to be a short placement soon became something much more significant. Brett has now been volunteering for over a year, working three days a week and becoming a valued member of the team.

Reflecting on his progress, Paul described him as having developed into a confident and positive individual, while Vickie highlighted the significant change in his mindset and focus on the future.

Now, Brett is preparing for his next steps. After four years in supported accommodation, he is bidding on properties, moving closer to independent living.

Through Ongo’s support, Brett has gone from a place of loss and uncertainty to one of confidence, purpose and ambition. His journey is a powerful example of how the right opportunity and ongoing support can help someone rebuild their life and move towards a more independent future.

To find out more about the support Ongo can offer you, head to their website: www.ongo.co.uk.