Supporter Spotlight – Tiffiny Moulton, Vehicle Claims Handler, AO

Tiffiny Moulton is a Vehicle Claims Handler at AO and a founding member of the company’s internal charitable initiative, Shine. Based in Crewe, Tiffiny is passionate about making a difference in her local community, particularly in supporting young people. AO’s support as a Founder Patron of The Dome Youth Zone in Crewe, has enabled her to turn that passion into action. Through Shine, she is helping drive fundraising and volunteering efforts that reflect AO’s commitment to giving back.

“When I first joined AO as a vehicle claims handler just over a year ago, I was instantly struck by how much the company values every member of staff – regardless of their role. It’s a place where you’re encouraged to grow, where your ideas matter, and where giving back to the community is part of the culture. That’s why, when the opportunity came up to help start something new and  meaningful – I jumped at the chance.

I was handpicked by one of our recruitment team to help launch an internal initiative called Shine. It’s a programme we created in-house to bring together AO employees who are passionate about making a difference in the community through charitable work. I was one of the founding members and actually came up with the name “Shine”. To me, it’s about potential – the potential we all have to shine, and the even greater potential young people have when they’re supported, nurtured, and given the right opportunities.

One of the key focuses for Shine will be supporting The Dome Youth Zone. With over 1,000 AO employees based in the area, many of whom have children, it felt like a natural fit. The Dome will offer of a safe, engaging space for local young people to explore new activities and connect with trusted adults. That vision really resonated – both for AO and for me personally.

Growing up, I didn’t have access to a youth club. We just hung about wherever we could – on the playground, in town – there was nothing structured or safe. Thinking back on that now, it’s quite sad. A lack of things to do often leads to boredom, and boredom can spiral into anti-social behaviour. So, when I think about what The Dome will offer I get genuinely excited.

Something that also really stuck out to me was The Dome’s commitment to inclusion. Every young person will be welcomed, regardless of whether they can afford the 50p entry. That kind of openness is so important. It means no child is left out because of their circumstances.

AO’s own culture and values really align with what The Dome is working to achieve. Through our AO Smile Foundation, we already support causes that matter to staff and Shine will build on that. Whether it’s organising fundraising events or volunteering, we’re creating opportunities for staff to get stuck in to make a difference. For many in the Shine programme that are also parents and getting involved gives them a real sense of what The Dome could mean for their own kids.

I think young people today face challenges we didn’t have to deal with – especially when it comes to social media. The constant comparisons, the online bullying – it can be relentless. That’s why I believe today’s young people need even more support than we did. I think The Dome will offer an antidote to that; it’ll help kids get off their screens, meet people from different backgrounds, and try new things they might never experience otherwise.

Importantly, it also gives them space to discover who they are. Not every young person does well in school. The Dome gives them a chance to explore their individuality, try out new skills, and find a passion before they’re forced to make big decisions about their future. I know I would’ve benefited from something like that when I was younger. Instead, I just picked a college course and hoped it would be right for me.

I also believe The Dome will have the potential to shift perceptions, not just of young people, but within the local business community too. Sometimes young people are unfairly stereotyped, but when businesses see the impact a space like The Dome can have, I think it will change attitudes.

Ultimately, if we want to inspire the next generation, we have to give them a voice. Let them be heard. Let them be involved in the decisions that affect them. And on a wider scale, I believe there needs to be more focus at a government level on funding and prioritising youth services.

I really can’t wait for The Dome to open its doors. It’s going to be an amazing place for Crewe’s young people, and I’m proud that, through Shine and AO’s ongoing support, I get to be a part of it.”