Students inspired by powerful ‘Paul’s Pledge’ message on being a victim of a serious crime

Students at Coleg Sir Gâr had the opportunity of meeting Paul Pugh during his visits to three college campuses to deliver an important message. 

In 2014, Paul launched Paul’s Pledge with Dyfed-Powys Police, which campaigns against alcohol fuelled violence. 

Paul himself fell victim to a monstrous crime in 2007 where he was left in a coma for two months following an unprovoked attack which left him with severe brain injuries. 

The perpetrators of the crime were imprisoned but Paul’s message comes from the experience of the victim and their families and what they had to endure as a result of the attack. 

During December, Paul visited three college campuses with PCSOs Dayton Hughes and Sharee Church and the INTACT Team of Dyfed Powys Police. 

Around 450 students attended the five talks that Paul presented. 

Jamie Davies, head of learner support and wellbeing for Coleg Sir Gâr and Coleg Ceredigion said: “Every learner gives Paul and the team their full attention during these sessions and are absolutely focused on his very powerful message.

“As always, learners always stay behind to speak to Paul personally to thank him and he’s always so welcoming of them and gives his time generously.

“I would like to thank Paul, Dayton and Sharee for giving up their valuable time again to deliver ‘Paul’s Pledge’. 

“Paul has been delivering these powerful talks to our students for over 10 years and personally, I have been present at more than 20 of his presentations and the impact on me never lessens. 

“He spoke to 450 people this time, but over the years, he will have seen in excess of 5,000 students. I know his words have changed the behaviours of many and his talks are very influential.”