#Lifechanging
Pulling no punches: Slam H helps young people change their lives
He pulls double-decker buses with his bare hands. And fire engines. And even, on one occasion, a Concorde plane. But his day job is altogether different. Gentle giant ‘Big’ Dave Gauder uses his strength to get ex-offenders back on track.
In theory, Slam H (which stands for Start Low, Aim High), a weight-training programme in Stourbridge, West Midlands, offers physical training and nutritional advice for young people Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEETs). In practice, it's also a powerful tool for rebuilding confidence.
Former World's Strongest Man – and holder of 26 world records for physical strength – Big Dave trains personally with everyone who joins the project.
Big Dave really listens. He understands and makes time for you.
"They get to know me, know my life, everything about me – but it all comes back to them, it shows them that they can turn their lives round too." The lesson here is that mental strength is as achievable – and important – as physical."
And it's a combination that works. "It's just been so cool training with a bloke like Big Dave," says Darren Young, 26, a former addict who has been coming to Slam H every day for the past two years. In that time he has been able to rebuild his relationships, most importantly with his three-year-old daughter. "I knew it was my opportunity. He's an inspiration to change," says Darren. "It's given me confidence, focus."
Kyle Bennett, 24, who served just over two years in jail before joining Slam H, tells a similar story. "Before I was in jail, if I looked at you and I didn't like what I saw, I just wouldn't talk to you," he admits. "Jail made it even worse. And then I came here and met this bunch of lads – and now I'm a happy, social person."
Over 60 ex-offenders have taken part in the Slam H programme since it started in 2012, helping reintegrate them in to society and ensure a brighter future.
"Big Dave really listens," says Kyle. "He understands and makes time for you as well. That's why I come down here. He's had experience with weights and he's worked with bullying schemes as well – he's been there, done that, got the t-shirt."
"If I didn't come here I'd probably still be on drugs," admits Darren. "I wouldn't have my daughter in my life. I wasn't a confident person. It's really helped me see past all that kind of stuff. I'm staying off drugs, staying out of trouble. Staying alive."
Slam H has received £9,500 in lottery funding, which has gone towards gym hire, building a website and providing personalised programmes.
The National Lottery has been changing the lives of winners and supporting good causes across the UK since 1994. In that time, there have been more than 7,400 new millionaires created and by playing The National Lottery you raise over £4 million for Good Causes every dayΔ.
Discover more