Falklands hero's inspiring words to Helena tenants (From St Helens Star)

Falklands hero's inspiring words to Helena tenants

5:34pm Wednesday 26th September 2012 in News

HE’S been a tower of inspiration to so many, and now Falklands veteran Simon Weston has offered words of wisdom to a man hoping to enlist in the Army.

Tenant David Ogden, 26, met the former Welsh Guardsman – who became an iconic figure for his heroism after suffering 46 per cent burns in an Argentinian air strike on the Sir Galahad in 1982 – as part of a trip to St Helens organised by Helena Partnerships.

Appleton Road resident David, who has received ongoing advice and support from Helena’s tenancy support team about budgeting and living independently, said: “I’m studying a fitness course and have been thinking about joining the Army as a fitness trainer, so Simon’s advice has given me food for thought.

“Despite what happened to him Simon still says his days in the military were the best of his life and he made an impression on me as a genuine, down-to-earth man.”

David was part of a group of tenants who spent time with Simon during his visit to Appleton Road, where Helena has introduced a local lettings policy to give priority housing to under-25s and people seeking work or training.

With increased security measures and a compulsory pre-tenancy training course, Helena has helped to reduce anti-social behaviour in the area, vastly cut the turnover of flats and support 26 young people into volunteering, work or training since May 2011.

Simon said: “It’s amazing what can happen when people think differently and creatively, as Helena has done at Appleton Road.

“The project focusing on young people is inspiring and visionary, and has had positive results already.”

To find out more about Helena’s supported tenancy options, visit helenahomes.co.uk or call 01744 63 73 83.