19th October 2022 – The Managing Director of Jersey-based recruitment company has revealed how Community Savings helped him turn his life around and go on to set up the business he now runs.
Lee Madden, Managing Director of GR8, the Channel Islands’ leading blue-collar employment specialist, was homeless, depressed and in debt but wants to tell his story so that others in a similar position seek the help that’s available.
Community Savings has appointed Mr Madden as an Ambassador of the charity.
Steve Eldred, Managing Director of Community Savings, said: “We are delighted that Lee has agreed to be one of our ambassadors. Lee’s story will strike a chord with many islanders who have gone through challenging times but have managed to turn their lives around with support. We hope that this will show others that it is ok to ask for help, particularly in the current economic crises, and that Community Savings is here to help people when they need it the most.”
Lee added: “I didn’t know about Community Savings until I had hit rock bottom and had nowhere else to turn. A friend told me about their services, and I stayed with them for years, even when I was setting up this business. Without their support, even if it was just being able to have a friendly chat with their staff, I don’t know what I would have done.”
As an Ambassador, Lee is sharing his story with the hope that others will come forward to seek help.
“Not long after I went to see them, I realised that I was not alone, and it was ok not to be ok. I hope that this will help people take that difficult first step and reach out to an organisation like Community Savings. I was sofa surfing, I had huge debts and I couldn’t get a bank account, but little by little, with their help, I managed to get my life back on track. You should never be scared about asking for help. Even when you are in your worst place things can get better, and you can achieve your goals. In my case, I pulled through thanks to their help.”