VIP PROJECT CASE STUDY: B.F

B.F joined the VIP Project seeking support to access employment and education, with a particular focus on returning to education. He had previously experienced challenges within education and wanted to complete his Functional Skills in English and Maths before progressing onto college. His long-term goal was to study either Hospitality or Construction, with a strong interest in becoming a chef due to his passion for cooking at home.

Prior to engaging with Leicestershire Cares, B.F had been a victim of crime, which had significantly impacted his confidence. As a result, he experienced anxiety when attending new places and lacked confidence in engaging with opportunities outside of his comfort zone.

During the initial appointment, time was spent building rapport and identifying B.F’s goals. It became clear that, alongside education, B.F wanted structure in his routine as he was not currently engaged in any activity. He also expressed an interest in gaining work experience and improving his employability knowledge, as he had no previous experience of applying for jobs.

B.F was introduced to the range of support available, including CV development, interview preparation, job searching, and guidance on education pathways. We also explored alternative provision programmes that could support him in achieving his English and Maths qualifications while keeping him engaged.

To begin preparing B.F for employment, we focused on developing his CV. Initially, B.F felt nervous as he had limited experience and had left education at a young age. With reassurance and step-by-step guidance, he was introduced to a CV builder toolkit, which helped simplify the process and improved his understanding of how to structure a CV. As part of this, we discussed the importance of volunteering to help build his experience and confidence.

B.F then progressed onto interview preparation. As he had no prior experience, we completed a mock interview session where he was asked general questions related to his interests, particularly within Hospitality. At the beginning, B.F was anxious; however, with feedback and encouragement, his confidence began to improve.

He later attended a Personal Branding and Mock Interview session delivered by business professionals. This session focused on body language, communication skills, and how to present himself in an interview setting. B.F also had the opportunity to speak one-to-one with professionals, including a professional from a hospitality background, which he found motivating. This experience helped him to better understand the industry and encouraged him to continue pursuing opportunities within Hospitality.

Following this, B.F engaged in job searching sessions, where he was supported to explore different job platforms and learn how to apply for roles independently. Over time, he became more confident in navigating job searches on his own.

Alongside employment support, we focused on identifying suitable education pathways. As B.F’s main priority was to achieve his English and Maths qualifications, he was referred to the HITS Programme. This programme offered him the opportunity to work towards his Level 2 English and Maths, alongside gaining work experience and a sports leadership qualification. B.F was very keen to engage with this programme, as it provided him with structure and something to work towards.

In addition, B.F applied for college courses, including a Hospitality course at South Wigston College, as well as a Bricklaying course as an alternative option.

Since engaging with the VIP Project, B.F has made significant progress. He is now actively attending the HITS Programme and is thoroughly enjoying it. He has also successfully secured a part-time job as a milkman, which has further developed his confidence and independence.

B.F is now on track to start college in September, demonstrating a positive step forward in both his education and employment journey.