Kim Webster lost her son 4 years ago, Canterbury College student William Horley, aged just 17, after he took the painkiller Tramadol and fell unconscious, before being rushed to hospital where, tragically, he couldn’t be revived.

Kenward Trust, Kent’s leading alcohol and drug rehabilitation centre is thrilled to welcome Kim to officially represent the youth team in schools across the county. In a bid to warn others of the dangers, and paint a picture of how difficult her life has been since his death 4 years ago, Kim is on a mission to help educate, inform and ultimately save young lives.

Since the tragedy, Kim has voluntarily spoken to over 17,000 teenagers about what actually happens when someone you love dies and the decisions a parent has to make as a consequence.

Kim says, “It is a privilege to join the team at Kenward Trust and continue to help make a difference. It has become a passion of mine to educate our young people since losing Will. Will was a typical teenager but he was naive, curious and uneducated in the dangers of drug use, just like all our children. If I can help save lives by sharing my journey and asking them to learn from Will’s mistake, then it is something I will continue to do in his memory.”

Together with Andy Watson, Substance Misuse Youth Outreach and Educational Worker, they are making a huge impact in schools using real life stories and experiences from individuals to help young people understand the outcomes of making certain decisions.

Feedback:

“Our 2 youngest saw you speak at their school and both said what a positive impact it had on them and totally changed their attitude. You are doing a wonderful thing in Will’s memory and are definitely making a difference.” Parent, Herne Bay High School

“I wanted to say thank you so much for today, I have already received some very good feedback on how impactful your talk was.” Lucy, Principal Canterbury College

“Your talks really do make the difference, my daughter was at your talk today, she spoke to you afterwards, and I got a lovely heartfelt text from her after your talk. Thank you for making her think, she is a sensible girl, but every night she goes out I worry. After listening to you today she did see if from a mum’s point of view and I hope that stays with her.” Mum, Canterbury College student.

If you are a school in Kent or Medway, and would like to book Kenward’s Youth Team’s invaluable talk, please email Christy Bishop or visit our website.