John Gayle
No-one was there for me when I was growing up to show me that I had choices. It seemed natural for me to try to help young people facing some of the things that I had been through. I have been very fortunate to have been working as a mentor for fifteen years, the experience I have gained through my life and my chosen career has enabled me to provide positive support to young people who require guidance, direction and help in developing the social skills to assist them through life. I am passionate about encouraging and supporting others to improve their circumstances through choices they make.
My Grandad came to Birmingham in the 1950s
Me and my Sisters
I turned professional at 24 with Wimbledon FC
The darkest of days, my achilles ruptured
I came back strong, winning the man of the match award at Wembley
Awards
- European Crime Reductions, Birmingham
- Inner City Crime, West Midlands Police award
- Birmingham Project (12 years)
For eleven years I ran a government programme operated through Birmingham City Council as a project using sport to deal with antisocial behaviour and drug misuse for young people with no clear future. This project was so successful that I was invited to Buckingham Palace to meet Princess Anne in 2004 to receive an award for Dramatically Reducing Crime within the local area of Acocks Green, Birmingham.Buckingham Palace
People who I've worked with:
School Neighbourhood Beat Manager
“ I have worked with John Gayle for about 5 years primarily to resolve issues involving young people when they have been in a crisis or involved in an incident……John has a natural gift in the way he is able to relate to young people…… John is hugely passionate about working with young people and somewhat of an inspiration to me personally.”
Deputy Headteacher - Pastoral Care and Support
“I have worked with John on a daily basis for 4 years in his Community Intervention role. John has the ability to engage pupils who area concern for the school…because they are vulnerable, at risk of permanent exclusion, non-attenders or potential NEETs. John has the skill to talk to young people in a way that quickly builds trust, mutual respect and more importantly the ability to influence. John has made a real difference….and will be a great loss to the school.”