David was born in Newham and is the eldest of seven brothers. Gaining five GCSEs at school his future seemed bright with a college place on offer. But David’s focus was soon drawn away by friends and his college work started to suffer. His friends were involved in crime and David followed them. Being sent to prison came as a real shock and made him determined to change. He studied hard whilst inside and gained qualifications in painting and decorating.

But upon release he found he faced constant rejection for permanent work due to his criminal record. Five years on David was still unemployed and was caught driving without insurance.  Sentenced to community service, Darren was back in the criminal justice system. His probation officer then provided him with information on BeOnsite and he went along to a selection event in Newham but was not chosen. Undeterred, David kept in touch with us and reapplied successfully.

Having worked with BeOnsite since 2009, David has also studied for and completed two NVQ Level 2s in structural concrete and in formwork. David now lives in his own house, supports his family and is a fully-contributing member of society, providing taxes to the public purse rather than draining resources.

“BeOnsite has helped me find out who I am and what I want to be. It has taught me to persevere and never give up. I now have the chance to show others that it is possible to change your life around.”