In 2024, Duncan was supported by our Passport CashBack project while serving a custodial sentence in HMP & YOI Polmont. Whilst in custody, Duncan obtained a series of skills-based accredited learning. Upon liberation, Duncan was keen to continue engaging and be referred on to the local Caseworker.

Duncan had worked before but wasn’t sure what type of work to do long term, or how to go about progressing forward. Duncan’s focus was building a “normal life” and doing things other people their age did.

Duncan was supported to build a CV based on groundwork completed within HMP & YOI Polmont. They were supported to job search, encouraged to make independent contact with employers, supported to source funding for driving lessons and chainsaw courses, and given general advice around disclosure.

With a love for the outdoors, Duncan engaged in work experience with a local tree surgeon company, and their Caseworker worked in collaboration with other funders and training providers to support Duncan through three compulsory courses – Chainsaw Maintenance, Crosscutting and Small Tree Felling up to 380mm, and Felling and Processing Medium Trees Over 380mm and up to 760mm.

Since working with their Caseworker in the community, they have passed their driving test, utilising funds sourced and applied for by their Caseworker though the Independent Living Fund (ILF), opening up more job opportunities and making Duncan even more motivated than ever.

In 2025, Duncan received the Access to Industry CashBack ‘Student of the Year’ award in recognition of the work achieved. When asked by their Caseworker if they had anything to say about the support received, Duncan said:

“Working with yourself has been very pleasant and I couldn’t have asked for a better person. It means everything to me what you have helped me do and achieve. You have helped me believe in myself and gave me non-stop motivation to keep going and achieve the goals I want to achieve and more.”

Now, in 2026, Duncan has gained employment and has the long-term aim of saving enough money to start their own business. This is now the main focus and Duncan continues to seek support to make this goal a reality.