Ian Whitehill

After a series of problems, with his health and living circumstances Ian Whitehill found himself homeless and living on the streets of London. Deciding to return home to Newport, Ian faced a raft of challenges, moving through a number of hostels.

After staying at the Solas Direct Access Hostel, Ian was encouraged to attend the Solas Learning Centre at Compass, where his love for the guitar was rekindled through music classes.

I don't think of academic success in terms of financial reward, I can't say that learning has changed my life in that respect yet, but in terms of gaining confidence and self -respect, it certainly has.To anyone thinking of starting a course, I can only say go for it, you won't regret it. As the man said, A journey of thousand miles starts with a single step.

Ian Whitehill

As Ian grew in confidence so did his interest in returning to learning, and he soon began to turn his attention to IT. A Music Technology course at Compass, run in partnership with the Outreach Department at Glamorgan University followed, and as Ian passed with flying colours he developed a new focus for his learning. Using his newly acquired skills Ian decided to help others within the hostel to find the potential within themselves and began volunteering at outreach sessions with GAVO.

As Ian has now moved out of the hostel and into his own accommodation, that 'single step' has lead to a journey of discovery that continues to enrich his life.