Ellie is a second year BSc (Hons) Criminology student at the University of Plymouth. A degree in Criminology can lead to work in the police, the law, probation, courts, charities, prisons and more. Ellie’s lecturers stressed the importance of volunteering to enhance her career prospects, so she followed up and found CASS+ online.
This work experience as a volunteer has helped her dispel some of the myths about UK courts. Ellie shares her thoughts here:
Court is basically full of normal people who have just made mistakes, but mistakes can be resolved. Each person has their own story. If they get it into perspective, it can be just one thing that went wrong and we will help them find a solution. Even if you think you can’t repair things, there’s always a way. I try and remind them that life will look a lot better in a year’s time. Many are just going through a bad patch. Some are at rock bottom. Others have no family, no friends, struggles with mental health, no income, or little food on the table.
We are a friendly face for anyone in a very scary environment. We stop and listen to them, without judgement.
I like helping people. Some people may have more complex problems but as a team we try to resolve them. It’s so rewarding to see someone in a better place. When I go home at the end of the day, I feel like I’ve done something good, and it’s even better when they say thank you for the help.
Ellie is aiming for good grades and she now knows that she may want to work in a court setting.
Whatever your age or background, please contact admin@cassplus.org to find out how you can make a difference. We have some great volunteering opportunities across Devon and Cornwall.