SOME of Swindon’s most vulnerable people celebrated achieving the qualifications they need to turn their life around with a visit from the mayor.

Residents at Booth House, a homeless shelter run by the Salvation Army, were presented with certificates by Mayor Teresa Page at a special presentation day.

After months of hard work, including volunteering in the centre’s social enterprises, The Sandwich People and Recycles, several residents had achieved qualifications in food safety, health and safety, first aid, sales, customer service and manufacturing.

Many had also completed a two-day motivational and developmental course.

Eileen Koppoe, specialist support worker at Booth House, said she was delighted to see them pick up their awards.

“I feel very proud to see their achievement and the excitement when people receive what may be their first certificate ever,” she said.

Swindon College representatives came to cheer on the students they had supported through the training.

And the Mayor encouraged residents to look on the qualifications as just a starting point and recalled her own decision to do something with her life and start volunteering.

Richard, one of the residents at Booth House, said: “I feel like I’m moving forward.”

Pam said: “I’m 54 and since coming to Booth House I have got my first certificates ever – I can’t believe it.”

Phil was also pleased with his achievement. He said: “It’s an amazing addition to my self development.”