How does a boy with a lack of confidence and relevant skills realise the ambition of building an eco-friendly, dream house?

Mark Edwards received mentoring support and guidance through a wonderful organisation, The Prince’s Trust. Founded 44 years ago, this charity matches industry mentors with young people starting out in business. It was because of mentoring from an M&S employee, BT employees and other generous people, that Valley Views came into being.

You can find out more about this amazing organisation and how Covid-19 means the work is more important than ever, from HRH The Prince of Wales himself by watching the video below.

For many people, the perception of businesses and business leaders are of people who ruthlessly pursue profits. Profits before people, profits before community, profits before environment. Yet there are many businesses that work hard to ensure that profits go hand in hand with looking after people, giving back to local communities, and preserving the planets’ resources for future generations.

It is thanks to very special  forward-looking organisations, Marks & Spencer, and British Telecom BT, that Mark received the encouragement for innovation. (Its curved wall rooms are communications experience for comfort- see blog thankyou Jack Curtain-BT)

Texture and depth (feel the oak and sculpted Quartz kitchen – feeling secure ) Keith Robertson, M&S  “our times remembered always”,

and Chris Redfern I am still “acting on your teachings… Do innovation, make a valued difference” (Hugh windows, spacious vaulted ceilings- for joy) to start the Valley Views experience.

Yes, it is full of the latest tech products, but they are used in a way that enhances the experience of living there.  Sustainable resources and renewable energy supplies are used wherever possible.  The overall design helps people maintain physical and mental health – it makes you feel happy being in it!

My late  parents were so grateful to The Prince’s Trust for making so much more of me.

My father saw me develop to be resourceful …. Do eco with benefits he said, for scale. Making it more affordable globally.  Leading a biomass boiler problem solving service ASK!

Mum trusted me to enhance the experience of living well …entering makes you happier.. The overall design helps people maintain physical and mental health, YES,thankyou Mum.

I thank every person who supports people at The Prince’s Trust – whatever your role thank you. Mark Edwards ( the sentiment on the video expresses my gratitude)

About The Prince’s Trust

Youth charity The Prince’s Trust helps young people to develop the confidence and skills they need to realise their ambitions, so that they can live, learn, and earn. Founded by The Prince of Wales in 1976, the charity supports 11 to 30 year olds who are unemployed or struggling at school and at risk of exclusion.

Many of the young people helped by The Trust are in or leaving care, facing issues such as homelessness, mental health problems, or have been in trouble with the law. The programmes offered by the charity give vulnerable young people the practical and financial support needed to stabilise their lives, helping develop self-esteem and skills for work. Three in four young people supported by The Prince’s Trust move into work, education, or training.  

The Trust has helped over 970,000 young people to date and supports over 100 more each day.

Further information about The Prince’s Trust is available at princes-trust.org.uk or on 0800 842 842.