Sabrina Norfolk’s own difficult childhood has inspired her to want to help others.

The 18-year-old (pictured), from Woodside, Bradford, was taken into care aged 11, was bullied at school and had to cope with her father being badly injured at work.

Her childhood led her to want to help provide a better start for other youngsters. Miss Norfolk has completed a placement at a nursery school and passed an apprenticeship in child care with Bradford charity Rathbone.

The teenager, who looks after her house-bound father and a sister with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, said: “My foster mum, who had spent 35 years looking after children and was a real shoulder to cry on, inspired me and made me want to give something back.”

Advice agency Connexions referred her to the Rathbone charity in Cheapside, Bradford, which specialises in helping teenagers.

“I am looking forward to the future now and going to Rathbone has given me direction,” said Miss Norfolk.

Rathbone runs courses for youngsters aged 16 to 18. Visit rathboneuk.org or phone 07879 248722.