Greg Jones

Tell us about Carney’s community

Carney’s is a local charity, based in Battersea that targets disadvantaged young people (with a special focus on young offenders), aged 11-30 and aims to support them to improve their lives and opportunities. This is done mainly through our mentoring and keywork program, which is long term with unconditional support and empathy, and our free boxing fitness sessions. However, we are also a needs led charity and charity and run numerous other projects, such as bike maintenance, employability, yoga and generic youth club activities.

What made you want to become a trustee for Carney’s community.

I'm a big fan of boxing and had been boxing training for a few years prior to me becoming a trustee in July 2018. I had seen at first hand how boxing had changed/improved my life significantly so when I friend of mine told me she was a trustee at carneys (where boxing is central) I was really keen to get involved and be a trustee too

Did you know much about the charity before you became involved as a trustee?

Nothing about the charity (apart from what my friend told me) but I had heard of Mick Carney, the boxing coach after whom the charity is named. Being a fan of boxing I had heard about what a great coach - and person - he was and how he was committed to supporting young people.

What do you feel trusteeship adds to your personal and professional development?

Being a trustee gives me a wider perspective on life. Its easy for me to get caught up in my comfortable 'bubble' of life but being a trustee at Carneys reminds me that there is a very different side to life out there. Which means I'm both more grateful for the privileges I have and also committed to using my knowledge and expertise to help improve the lives of others, in some small way at least

What value have you been able to add to your charity with your personal and professional experience?

I work in PR and marketing so I've been able to bring some of my experience to Carneys. Particularly working with those members who are running their own businesses and advising them on handling the media, working with brands etc.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone thinking about becoming a trustee what would it be?

Do it! I've got so much from it, both meeting charity members, working with other trustees and learning from George. It's been really rewarding.