AN INSPIRING young man who overcame homelessness and drug addiction to become an NHS key worker has won a national award.

Thomas Pemberton, 22 from Blackburn, first shared his story in December last year when it was announced that he had been shortlisted for the Prince's Trust Homesense Young Achiever of the Year Award.

He was thrilled when, in a star studded virtual ceremony this Thursday hosted by Ant and Dec and featuring Dame Helen Mirren, Idris Elba, Alesha Dixon, Holly Willoughby, and Philip Schofield, the charity announced that he had won.

Thomas said: “I can’t say I was expecting it, it was a massive shock.

“When they arranged it I thought I was going to be interviewed and they’d just ask me some questions, just in general about my life story then the next thing I know I’m presented with a big shiny award

“To read my name on it, I was lost for words.”

“It’s been a long journey, and its been a big learning curve but it’s been great.”

Lancashire Telegraph:

Thomas Pemberton

Thomas' story is one of triumph over incredible adversity.

At 18 years old he became homeless after a breakdown in his relationships at home before turning to alcohol and drugs and finding himself unsure where to turn.

Not in education and with increasing challenges to his mental health, Thomas found help from a homelessness charity who referred him to The Prince’s Trust where he decided to join the Get into Healthcare programme.

After a four-week placement, he secured a job in the laundry department and he has been working for the NHS ever since, becoming a key worker when the pandemic hit.

Along with the award, the Prince's Trust has also released a video in which Thomas guides viewers through his work with the NHS and gives thanks to his Princes Trust mentor Greg.

Thomas said: “He had tears in his eyes, it was incredible.”

Turning to his advice to other young people who may be facing challenges, he added: "I’m always telling people to go for it, if they get the opportunity.

“It’s given me a career, but more than that its given me a life.

“It’s led me from being unemployed and living with my parents to having a full-time job and living with my partner."

Thomas's efforts have won plaudits from his NHS colleagues, his trust mentors and from Prince's Trust ambassador Dame Helen Mirren.

Lancashire Telegraph:

Prince's Trust ambassador Dame Helen Mirren (Picture credit: PA)

She said: “If there has ever been a more inspiring story, Thomas’ is up there.

From being homeless at the age of 18 to finding employment in the NHS Thomas is a true inspiration.

"His hard work and commitment so rightfully recognised a huge well-done Thomas! You should be very proud.”

East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust deputy director of education, research and innovation Julia Owen added her voice to those praising Thomas' achievements.

She said: "Since coming to East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust in 2018 Thomas has been a valued member of the laundry team and has hugely contributed to the important work they do behind the scenes, as well as being a fantastic mentor and advocate for ELHT and the Prince’s Trust.

"Well done Thomas, we are all extremely proud of you."

To find out more about the Prince's Trust, go to: https://www.princes-trust.org.uk/.