MLMC  Trustee secures new job as Camden Society Service Quality Director

Ben McCay joined My Life My Choice (MLMC) in 2017. Before joining MLMC, Ben said he felt lonely and isolated after years of unemployment and difficulties finding things to do out the house. Then, he met Nigel, a member of MLMC who inspired him to get involved. “If you can do it, I can too,” Ben recalls.

Starting with the Banbury group, Ben discovered a supportive community of people with similar experiences. “It helped me out a lot; it was nice to meet people like me,” he explains.

“It was nice to meet people like me.”

In 2018, Ben became a trustee, quickly impressing in his role as Co-Chair of the Trustees. Representing MLMC at national conferences, he connected with others and spoke about the importance of people with learning disabilities having their voices heard and shaping services.

Through MLMC’s Travel Buddy scheme, Ben gained vital independence. Public speaking and mentoring programmes accessed through the charity transformed his confidence. “I didn’t have any confidence when I joined. MLMC taught me how to speak up and advocate for myself and others,” he says.

“MLMC stops me from being lonely and has given me more work opportunities and a social life. I don’t think I could cope without it.”

Ben’s proudest achievements include MLMC winning the Charity Award in 2023, speaking at the charity’s 25th anniversary, and supporting other members to become trustees.

This year, Ben’s hard work paid off when he secured a role as Service Quality Director with the Camden Society, a job that aligns with his skills and passions. He credits MLMC with preparing him for this opportunity. “MLMC has been like my apprenticeship for this job. It’s my reward for years of hard work,” he says.

Ben remains a dedicated member of MLMC, valuing the support provided, especially during challenging times: “MLMC stops me from being lonely and has given me more work opportunities and a social life. I don’t think I could cope without it.”

From all of us at My Life My Choice, we would like to wish Ben the best of luck in his new role with the Camden Society. Congratulations Ben!