European Social Fund in England

Case studies: The ESF Outstanding Individual Learner Award to

Milton Wacha from Fulham

Milton Wacha receiving his award from MP James

Plaskitt ESF Minister for Department for Work and Pensions

Milton Wacha used to be one of the most prolific criminals in West London. Expelled from school at 15, he drifted into a life of crime and drugs. When he was first registered with Action Acton, which helps offenders into work, as part of his probation scheme, he was uncommunicative and aggressive. He didn’t show the slightest interest in learning.

Milton doesn’t commit crimes any more. He no longer has to report to probation. Being sent on various courses including football coaching and customer care has got him to the stage of being able to start work in a shop, although his goal is eventually to work in sport.

The change is extraordinary. “I’ve just been talking to my case worker and she said that when she first met me, I was quiet and I didn’t pay attention. Getting involved in learning has made me expand my mind and focus on other people,” he says over the phone from the Action Acton offices. “I would never have believed me if I had said to myself that I would be here talking to a journalist.”

He adds: “I’ve turned a corner. I just had to get myself back in order.” He has spoken at events for Action Acton about turning his life round. “If people have got nothing to do they get involved in crime. It becomes a routine. Now I’m more outgoing and confident. It’s easy to talk to people now.”