Edward is a master’s graduate in clinical psychology currently training to be a qualified therapist serving the Bexley area. He has been a part of PL9 since December 2013 and has been involved in many forums, projects and meetings aiming to establish PL9’s role as a pioneer for youth wellbeing and betterment in local communities.

Professionally he has volunteered in the community for adult healthcare and is still a volunteer youth mentor for PL9. He has also worked in a medium secure unit, which houses adult incarcerated service users with severe and complex mental health issues.

His knowledge and experience gained from his academic and work background has equipped him with key interpersonal skills that are much needed to connect with the youths the organisation is trying to reach.

Edward’s main role in the team is to be a coach for youths. To increase awareness of psychological therapies and offer psychoeducation for youths, highlighting the importance of maintaining wellbeing, especially for young persons who may be criminally at risk. He hopes work with and celebrate other organisations who provide help to youths and enhance networking in order to establish a far-reaching web of opportunities for the work of PL9. Edward plans to collaborate with local mental health institutions to offer work experience or avenues into psychological work for those who may be interested in pursuing that career path.

“As a young adult having come from a poor background and growing with many who unfortunately took misdirected steps into criminal activities and/or prison. I truly see the importance for salient and legitimate role models that youths can take advice from and understand that life doesn’t have to be as limiting as it may feel at times.”

Edward’s aim is to shine a light on better paths for at risk youth, aiding these youths in utilising PL9 as a platform through which they can enter legitimate careers of their choosing.

“Through my work at PL9 I am also motivated to show those we work with, that merit and social value do not have to be restricted by others perceptions of us. Juliet Lamin has been an inspiration in this regard and I would like to follow the example she has set when it comes to pushing youths forward into positions of influence.”