Brendan Rodgers hears the difference the third sector can make in transforming lives - watch the video here

Celtic manager Brendan Rogers heard the story of one young man’s journey from prison to football coaching thanks to help from the third sector.

Patrick OSullivan had been in and out of jail since he was 14 – but he told Rogers how his life has been turned around thanks to his own effort and help from charities.

He took part in Celtic FC Foundation’s Cashback Gateway to Employment project which works with young people who are at risk of offending or re-offending, teaching personal development, workplace skills and mentoring and ultimately moving participants into training, further education and jobs.

Patrick completed a 10 week course and and was successful in gaining employment as a Celtic FC community coach, thanks to funding from Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations’ Community Jobs Scotland programme.

You can hear more of Patrick’s story and see him talking to Brendan Rogers here:

Speaking after meeting Rogers, he said: “I had to pinch myself as I couldn’t believe what was happening. I was so nervous but Brendan was really friendly and immediately made me feel at ease. He also told me I could see him if I was ever struggling or feeling down.

“The whole day felt like a dream and I am so grateful to Celtic FC Foundation for giving me the opportunity to experience something I will never, ever forget for as long as I live.

"For the first time in my life, I am not afraid of the future – I hope the best is yet to come.”