Mick

Self-confessed former lazy teen, Mick has achieved a lot during his time at Recycling Lives.

Born in Barnsley, Mick moved to Preston after struggling to get himself motivated in his home town. As a young teenager Mick, spent many of his evenings socialising with friends and his days catching up on sleep.

After driving his mum to despair, Mick decided to move to Preston to live with his dad and embark on a fresh start. Sadly, Mick’s best intentions were dashed as he struggled to find work and found himself moping around the house.

Mick said: “Things didn’t go as I had planned them when I arrived in Preston. Tension grew in the house I shared with my dad, stepmother and little brother, and I struggled to find work to support myself.

“When things got worse, I was asked to move out and, when I literally had nowhere to go, I realised I would have to change.”

Mick became a popular member of the Recycling Lives community and, as a hard worker, was one of the first Residents to get involved with the Recycling Lives Bulky Waste service, which collects unwanted and damaged household items from properties across the country.

Mick learnt how to restore, reuse and recycle, and his dedication to the job earned him a full-time position on the service once he completed his Personal Development Plan.

Twenty five year old Mick said: “The best thing about Recycling Lives for me has been the opportunity to sort my head out. I realised I couldn’t continue the way I was heading and I have been able to change my life and, most importantly, make my family proud.

“As well as a job, I have my own flat, which is great as I feel like I’ve really achieved something positive.”