Working for Scope: David Bourroughs
David works in the fundraising team at our Market Road office in north London. He’s 26, has cerebral palsy and is a wheelchair user.
Tell us about yourself
I work in the individual giving fundraising team at Scope as a Supporter Development Fundraiser. One of my main responsibilities is developing direct marketing campaigns. This includes developing stories for our cash appeals that we send to a selection of Scope supporters. I also produce raffle packs, which encourage our supporters to buy and sell raffle tickets for us, raising vital funds for Scope.
How did you hear about Scope?
It was through the old community fieldwork team. I called the Cerebral Palsy Helpline (now Scope Response) as I wanted advice on leisure activities in my local area.
I was invited to a Scope open day where I met the volunteer team. Two weeks later, I was offered a volunteer placement within the fundraising team, where I worked three days-a- week. After 10 months, I was offered a fundraising traineeship. Nine months after that I was offered my current position in the individual giving team. I’ve worked for Scope for four years now.
What do you enjoy most about the work?
The thing I most enjoy is listening and capturing the stories of the disabled people and families we support. It’s really inspiring to hear the difference Scope makes to the lives of disabled people and the bespoke expertise we provide. I don’t think there are many organisations out there, if any, that are able to offer disabled people and their families such expertise.
What has Scope enabled you to do?
Scope has given me a chance. If you’re not given a chance, you can’t show your talent or express yourself and show the world that, even though you’re disabled, you can still fulfil your potential and lead the life you want to lead. I’ve become a lot more confident and outgoing, too.
What’s the best part of your Scope experience?
My best experience of Scope was when I took part in the Ben Nevis Challenge in May 2008. I was leader in a team of five Scope employees, and together we ascended and got to the top of Ben Nevis. I was in a specially adapted wheelchair, and the team pulled me to the top of the mountain with ropes and slings while I shouted at the top of my voice.
Scope has made a significant difference to my life, and without them I wouldn’t be where I am today. They gave me an opportunity and saw my potential when no one else would.
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