GETTING BACK TO NATURE

SOLUTION Nina's condition meant she struggled to find work

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DIAGNOSED with chronic fatigue syndrome as a teen, Nina Stubbington was unable to complete A-levels or work full-time hours, but by building herself up after school she was able to take a part-time shift working in retail.

But Nina, 23, from Southampton, wasn't happy. She was stuck in a life she had never pictured due to her health condition.

She was constantly looking for a nature-based role and regularly looked for entry-level trainee jobs, but most were unsuitable, requiring further qualifications or full-time commitment - something she could not give due to her health.

Nina accidentally stumbled on to a New to Nature programme through an environment jobs website. It sought applications from those with disabilities and health conditions.

Supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and in partnership with Groundwork UK, The Prince’ Trust (now The King’s Trust), and others, it allows young people, such as Nina, to take up a paid work placement at more than 80 environmental organisations UK-wide.

REWARDING