A TEENAGER with autism has thanked the Sea Cadets for turning his life around for the better.

Oliver Hain says without his volunteer role at Parkstone Sea Cadets, he ‘would have no friends’ and be ‘sat at home doing nothing.’

The 19-year-old has spoken out for Volunteers Week which runs from June 1 to urge young people to sign up to the charity to make a difference.

Oliver, who joined the organisation in 2012 and is now a civilian instructor, said: “Sea Cadets has helped me to stay calm. With my autism I find it hard to cope in social situations, but this has helped me to become a well-rounded young man who is up for a challenge and loves water sports.

“My favourite thing about Sea Cadets is meeting people and sharing my experiences, and helping cadets to do the best they can. It has given me a direction in life and kept me in school, and also helped when I was having a rough time in my life, such as getting into arguments with my mum.

“Sea Cadets has given me confidence to speak to people of all ages and abilities and has grounded my life. If it had not been for Sea Cadets, I would have had no friends and just sat at home doing nothing.”

The registered charity offers land-based and water-based adventure for 10 to 18-year-olds – but without volunteers, this would not be possible.

Volunteers at Sea Cadets receive full support, as well as training and an induction. Roles are available in a variety of areas, from managing finances and budgets, fundraising for the unit and organising events, to teaching cadets first aid, navigation, drill, sailing, powerboating, kayaking and windsurfing.

Sea Cadets has 9,000 volunteers across the UK. Young people enjoy activities such as sailing, drill, first-aid training and band practice at 400 units, which helps to boost their confidence and self-belief.

For more information go to sea-cadets.org/