JS, a 16-year-old with SEND, including ASD, ADHD and anxiety, was referred to the Altogether Now project in the lead-up to his GCSE exams. At the time, he was receiving his core education through alternative provision, particularly for English and Maths. Recognising the need for a tailored approach, the Altogether Now team worked closely with JS to build his confidence, provide him with opportunities to socialise, learn how to travel independently and support his transition into post-16 education.
Over the course of JS’s first four months on the project, they took part in regular one-to-one sessions, which focused on practical skills such as CV writing, job searching, route planning for college, and preparing for interviews. These sessions were carefully structured to help JS manage his anxiety and feel more prepared for the future. The initial meeting with JS took place at his home, this allowed him to feel much more comfortable about attending and engaging with the project and allowed a plan to be set out with some clear goals.
To help JS build confidence and social skills in a relaxed setting, he was encouraged to participate in team-building activities at Beaumanor Hall and Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre. He also attended social events, including a fun game of crazy golf and a hands-on Easter egg cheesecake-making session. These were kindly supported by our business partners Nelsons Law, Everards and HRBS, who provided valuable staff volunteers and encouragement throughout. Having these business volunteers at these social events allowed for opportunity for JS to communicate with these individuals in a more natural way, with far less pressure attached. During these sessions, JS not only attended the activities but also challenged himself to step out of his comfort zone and let his skills and experience shine through, one particular instance included sharing different ways to tie knots with other young people and Altogether Now staff. JS also took the lead with a business volunteer and directed them during the Easter egg cheesecake workshop, providing step by step instructions to really develop his communication, teamwork and leadership skills.
The Altogether Now team continued to support JS beyond the workshops and one-to-ones. Staff attended his pre-college starter needs assessment meeting to ensure that appropriate support would be in place when he began his course. With their help, JS was successfully able to access a Learning Support Assistant and college welfare services, enabling him to have a positive and productive first year in further education. It was important that JS still had contact open with the Altogether Now team even whilst at college so that he could not only just enrol but he could engage with the course, with regular communication taking place, in particular during the start of his time there. To assist with his studies, JS was loaned a laptop which the Altogether Now team helped to source, helping them to reduce digital barriers to learning. .
It has been a great experience getting to know the people at Leicestershire Cares. I am very grateful for the support they have provided me with and help me in getting extra support at college.
J.S - Young person
More recently, 17-year-old JS returned to the project for support updating his CV and preparing for a job interview. We’re delighted to share that he was successful in securing the role and is now awaiting final employment checks before starting his new job at a large local employer. JS’s journey is a fantastic example of how joined-up support, business engagement, and youth-centred planning can empower young people with additional needs to thrive. Whilst we will still continue to be an available contact for JS moving forward, we’re incredibly proud of his achievements and look forward to seeing what the future holds for him.