“I just want to be able to make that change for other people, because growing up I didn’t have that.”
By his own admission, Marley had to grow up fast.While he found a safe haven at school, his life took a turn at sixteen when he moved into supported living. , Marley’s mental health suffered, and he was eventually forced to pause his college education.
“At that point, it all fell apart.”
Marley felt lost. Living in Wisbech, local opportunities were sparse. “I applied to jobs every week, as far as London.”
For Marley, a career in healthcare had been a lifelong ambition. Growing up watching 24 Hours in A&E he dreamt of becoming a nurse. So, when a local youth worker mentioned our Activate Your Future programme, which involved a two-week placement at one of the UK’s leading hospitals, he knew he had to apply.
“As soon as I found out about the opportunity to work there for two weeks, that was my dream.”
Marley’s dedication was tested on day one of the programme. His commute from his accommodation in Wisbech to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge took over two hours. After a late bus caused him to miss his train, a dead phone battery left him unable to show his ticket and a long walk battling the rain left him feeling defeated.
“In my head, it was the end.”
The relief Marley felt when he finally reached his destination and was greeted by Kate Greenwood, Work Opportunities Manager at CUH, marked the start of an impactful two weeks.
“As soon as Kate met me at the door, it felt welcoming.”
In week one, Marley was placed in Occupational Health. The team were keen for him to experience all the different parts of the department, from taking blood and doing immunisations to shadowing different members of the team such as the Physiotherapist. The team were so impressed with Marley that after his placement they reached out to offer him the chance to do an apprenticeship, a first for the department, showcasing what an impact he had made in his short time.
Occupational Health Team
“I was impressed by his commitment to the placement, particularly given his long and difficult journeys from Wisbech.”
“Marley has a friendly, professional manner and showed real interest and enthusiasm in our nurse clinics.”
In week two, Marley moved to the Biochemistry labs. While he knew lab work wasn’t his long-term career, he wanted to understand this side of the hospital to better inform his long-term goal of being a nurse.
“It wouldn’t be for me, but it was very important I understood this.”
After years of independence and hardship, the warmth, kindness and support from the NHS staff meant a lot to Marley.
“On the second day, everyone had made sure they knew my name and where I was going in case I got lost.”
It gave him a clearer sense that he was on the right path, while also showing him that there were people ready to support him in pursuing it.
“The worry was if I never tried it, I would then get into it and not like it. This was a chance to be able to do it, know that I like it and that people were willing to help me get there.”
One of the most affirming moments for Marley was learning that a traditional university degree isn’t the only route into the NHS. For someone whose educational journey didn’t follow a conventional route, this was a revelation and exactly the kind of confidence boost he needed.
Looking ahead, the programme has renewed Marley’s desire to work in healthcare. He’s already seeking volunteer work at a local clinic in Wisbech. Whether he ends up in Nursing, Youth Work or another role within the NHS, Marley’s goal is simple: he just wants to help people.
“I just want to be able to make that change for other people, because growing up I didn’t have that.”
His advice to other young people facing similar hurdles?
“Just do it. I’m so glad I gave myself that chance.”
Inspired by Marley’s story? If you organisation could offer opportunities to help young people build confidence and explore their futures, we’d love to hear from you. Please contact our Head of Business Development, Gwen Bergius, at gbergius@formthefuture.org.uk or visit our Partners page to find out how you can get involved.