Nosheen Tabassum volunteers with us in Birmingham. She graduated from Birmingham City University with a degree in Law and Criminology and is currently doing a Masters in Criminology.

Nosheen is a Crimestoppers volunteer in Birmingham

When I was growing up I always heard the negative views of young people in the media and how those views created a negative impact on them.

Some people still view young people in a negative light; I want to be able to prove to them that young people can make a change, whether big or small.

Volunteers making a change

If you want to make a change in your community and be part of something special, Crimestoppers offers you that opportunity. It helps you grow as a person and allows you to give something back.

I became a volunteer during my gap year between my studies; I was looking for something that would mean my work would have an impact in the community. When a friend of mine mentioned Crimestoppers, I took up the opportunity. Being a part of the charity meant that I could help make a difference.

The project I am currently a part of is entitled ‘Project Shadow’. It is about hidden crimes such as honour-based violence, female genital mutilation and forced marriages.

These types or crimes usually take place behind ‘closed doors’ and can’t be seen but one cannot turn a blind eye to them. Before becoming a part of Crimestoppers, I knew these crimes took place but I didn’t know that the impact was so huge.

New views

It has opened up new views and helped me realise that there is a need for change. People need to be aware of these issues. We want to reach out to those people who have become a victim of these crimes, or know anybody who is, and tell them that they are not alone. We want to tell them that there is help available and we are here to help.

I am glad that I was given a chance to be part of a great team at Crimestoppers. Being a part of Crimestoppers has helped me meet some amazing people, who also want to be able to make a change in the community, who want things to change and want to help people too.

Do you want to make a difference in your community?

Find out more about volunteering with Crimestoppers.