A ROYAL Navy sailor and photographer at HM Naval Base Clyde has shared his stories of two months helping vulnerable adults at a Glasgow charity.

Leading Photographer (LPhot) Ben Shread spent November and December working with staff and guests at the Urban café run by the Glasgow City Mission (GCM).

The service specialises in working with guests who have experienced difficulties in the past and are now trying to bring some stability back into their lives.

One of the aims is to stimulate the guests back into hobbies, pastimes or vocations and Ben was keen to pass on his photography skills to the group in the hope that he could inspire at least one member, which could lead to a new hobby or potentially even a new career.

During his time at the mission, Ben delivered a series of basic photography classes, including some targeted one-to-one sessions with some of the students. The course of lessons culminated in an outing to Strathblane Parish Church where the guests were given the chance to put their newly acquired skills into practice.

“I was really glad to be able to add to the fantastic work they do at the Glasgow City Mission. It was great to work with the staff and guests, said Ben.

“Everyone was really receptive to the lessons and enjoyed getting out to take the pictures. They all showed interest and enthusiasm and the result was some really nice photographs.”

Staff and volunteers at the Glasgow City Mission work with adults and children who are vulnerable and disadvantaged in Glasgow, people who are often leading chaotic or difficult lives, they help them to break free from their oppressive situations.

That situation may involve, homelessness, addiction, poverty, family breakdown, prostitution, emotional issues, fleeing persecution overseas and now seeking asylum or maybe all of these.

Urban is the internet café space which also includes a gym and a music production studio. It aims to provide opportunities to those who are alcohol and drug free and looking to move on in life in a positive way

Clare O’Sullivan, who is the manager of Urban at Glasgow City Mission said: “One of the aims of Urban is to foster creativity in our members. Activities such as art, creative writing, pottery, and now photography provide an outlet, as well as sometimes being the spark needed for someone to realise their potential.

"Ben was able to spend targeted one-to-one time with some of our members and lead them through the process of composing and shooting a beautiful photo.”