Member Profile: Sarah Grimes

MEMBER PROFILE

NAME: Sarah Grimes COMPANY: Transitions UK JOB TITLE: Community engagement manager

WHAT DOES YOUR ORGANISATION DO?

Transitions UK supports vulnerable young people aged 14 – 25 who are struggling with personal disadvantage. We work especially with young people who have learning disabilities and special needs; those with emotional and mental health issues; those leaving care; and those at risk of offending or criminal exploitation.

HOW DID IT ALL START?

I started with Transitions UK back in September after a short period of redundancy from my previous charity. The charity itself is now in its sixth year. We have achieved a lot in this time but there’s lots more to do, yet!

WHAT KEEPS YOU AWAKE AT NIGHT?

I really struggle to sleep at night as I just can’t seem to get my brain to switch off! Many things race through my head: work, shopping, world disasters, ice cream, puppy dogs - you name it!

WHAT HAS SURPRISED YOU MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?

What has surprised me most of all is that even though we have been in lockdown more than once, the general public are still extremely keen to support local charities and help others in their community.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT?

Stay positive, believe in yourself and treat other people the way you’d like to be treated yourself.

WHICH BUSINESS PERSON DO YOU MOST ADMIRE?

Dolly Parton – not ashamed of her roots and is a kind person, talented and successful.

WHAT EXCITING PROJECTS IS YOUR ORGANISATION WORKING ON?

We are currently working on a new project called Affirm. This programme launches in the summer and involves working closely with young people experiencing mental health and emotional wellbeing problems.

WHAT MADE YOU JOIN MILTON KEYNES CHAMBER AND HOW ARE YOU MAKING USE OF YOUR MEMBERSHIP?

We joined the Chamber because it is important to stay connected with other businesses from the county as they are a part of the communities we serve. It helps us to develop relations charity partnerships, generate support, recruit volunteers and beneficiaries and raise our profile.

Call: 01582 380620 or 07736 943350 Email: sarah.grimes@transitionsuk.org or support@transitionsuk.org Visit: www.transitionsuk.org

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