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A Year to Remember, a New Year to Celebrate

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

As 2024 comes to an end, I would like us all to take a moment to reflect on our journeys. Let’s be grateful for the amazing foster carers, care staff, and leaders who share their vision and empower their teams to be the best versions of themselves. You are all truly angels on this earth.

Life brings its share of trials and tribulations, and nothing truly meaningful ever comes easy. Whatever this year has been for you, it’s okay to take things slow. Life can be busy and chaotic; we make mistakes and learn from them. The most important part is practicing self-forgiveness and striving for self-growth.

We don’t need to have everything planned. After my own personal losses, I stopped trying to plan everything and instead focused on being a good person and doing my best. External circumstances and internal conflicts can sometimes feel like they’re stalling us, but progress isn’t about being perfect or reaching the top—it’s about momentum. Taking risks, getting started, and contributing to something meaningful with the right intentions can make all the difference.

Our Progress values guide me every day. I believe that when we treat others with respect, love grows strong, and where there is love, there is a sense of safety.

If you believe in yourself, in what you’re doing, and in what you hope to achieve, no adversity is too great to overcome.

Please take time this festive season to check on family and friends who may have been quiet. For some, this can be a challenging time of year. To those facing difficulties or overcoming adversity, I hope things get better for you soon.

On behalf of the senior team at Progress, I wish you all blessings and happiness in the New Year ahead.

With love from
Tina Bhardwaj — Head of Children’s Services, Progress

The Vital Role of Support Workers at Christmas

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness, and reflection. While many of us spend Christmas surrounded by loved ones, indulging in festive traditions, there are those whose dedication ensures others can experience the warmth of the season, no matter their circumstances. At Progress, our support workers embody this spirit of care and compassion, even on Christmas Day. 

For support workers like Harninder Singh, the festive period is an opportunity to create special moments for the individuals they support. This Christmas, Harninder will be on duty, ensuring that young individuals being supported by The Hub experience the magic of the season in a way that is meaningful and memorable for them. “One of our residents, Adam, will have his family visiting for a few hours on Christmas Day,” he shares. “After that, we’ll plan some activities in the evening to keep the festive spirit alive. I’ll even be wearing my Christmas hat!” 

Harninder’s commitment highlights the importance of the role support workers play—not just in providing essential care but in creating an environment of joy and community. At The Hub, and across Progress, this means going beyond the practicalities of care to ensure residents feel included in the season’s celebrations. From organising festive activities to sharing meals and laughter, the focus is on fostering a sense of belonging and cheer. 

For many of our young adults, these moments are deeply significant. “Christmas is about more than decorations or presents,” Harninder explains. “It’s about ensuring that everyone feels warm, valued, and cared for, especially during the colder months when many people face challenges like staying warm or affording heating.” 

At Progress, we recognise and deeply appreciate the dedication of our staff who work during the holidays. Their efforts ensure that the people we support continue to receive the care they need while also enjoying the festivities in a way that brings joy and comfort. To every support worker who gives their time and energy during this season, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. 

Harninder’s Christmas wish is simple yet poignant: “Live in peace, stay warm, and have a good Christmas and a Happy New Year.” It’s a sentiment that reflects the very essence of Progress’ mission—providing care that goes beyond the expected to touch lives in meaningful ways. 

As we celebrate this season, let us not only enjoy the festivities but also take a moment to acknowledge the incredible work of our support workers. Their dedication ensures that every resident, no matter their situation, can share in the warmth and joy of Christmas. To all our staff on duty this Christmas: thank you for the invaluable role you play in making the season brighter for so many. 

The Role of a Support Worker at The Hub: Empowering Lives with Compassion and Care – Harninder

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Support workers at The Hub play an instrumental role in enabling the people supported to achieve their fullest potential while living as independently as possible. The Hub, part of Progress’ supported living services, is a unique space where individuals currently aged 18 to 29 receive tailored support to navigate their lives and grow in confidence. For support workers, the role goes beyond simply providing care—it’s about fostering dignity, independence, and meaningful connections in an environment where every day brings new opportunities and challenges.  

Supporting Independence and Building Confidence 

The primary goal of a support worker at The Hub is to help people develop the skills they need to lead independent and fulfilling lives. From personal care to household tasks, every activity is an opportunity to build confidence and autonomy. “Even the smallest tasks, like guiding an individual to make a cup of tea or helping them organise their shopping, can be transformative,” explains Harninder Singh, a support worker at The Hub. “It’s about celebrating every achievement, no matter how small it seems.” 

Daily routines are designed to encourage people to participate actively in their care and activities, fostering a sense of responsibility. These routines range from physiotherapy sessions to community outings and rehabilitation exercises, all tailored to the individual’s abilities and interests. For the people supported, this personalised approach creates a sense of purpose, while for support workers, it offers the rewarding experience of seeing progress unfold. 

The focus on independence also involves empowering people to make choices and take control of their lives. Support workers serve as guides and mentors, ensuring they feel capable and supported as they navigate new experiences. This collaborative approach underpins the success of The Hub’s services, ensuring individuals feel valued and capable in their journey towards independence. 

Adaptability: Meeting Diverse Needs 

The Hub’s supported living environment caters to individuals with a wide range of needs, requiring support workers to be highly adaptable. Some individuals require intensive one-to-one care, including assistance with complex medical conditions such as epilepsy management or PEG feeding. Others are more independent, needing only guidance and encouragement to achieve their goals. “Each day is different,” says Harninder . “You might be supporting someone with personal care in the morning and helping another resident work on their confidence during a community outing in the afternoon.” 

This diversity demands flexibility and creativity from support workers, who must tailor their approach to suit each individual’s unique circumstances. Technology also plays a vital role in delivering consistent care. At The Hub, tools like One Touch streamline communication and documentation, allowing support workers to access care plans, record activities, and share updates efficiently. Harninder admits that adjusting to digital systems was initially challenging but acknowledges their benefits: “Once you get the hang of it, everything is right there on your phone or tablet, which makes it so much easier to stay organised and provide the best support.” 

The role also requires quick thinking and the ability to handle unexpected situations with poise. Whether it’s finding indoor activities during bad weather or managing behavioural challenges, support workers must remain calm and resourceful, always keeping the well-being of the person supported at the forefront. 

Building Trust and Fostering Relationships 

The success of The Hub’s services relies heavily on the strong relationships support workers build with the people supported. These relationships are rooted in trust, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to personal growth. “When I first started working with one of the individuals, I was nervous about how to approach him,” Harninder reflects. “But over time, we built trust, and now we work together with confidence and understanding.” 

Trust is fostered through consistent communication and empathy, allowing people to feel secure and supported. Professional boundaries are maintained, but the atmosphere at The Hub is warm and collaborative, with a focus on creating a sense of community. “The Hub feels less like a workplace and more like a family,” Harninder says. “Everyone is approachable, from the management team to the staff, which makes a huge difference in how we work together to support the people in our service.” 

By prioritising trust and respect, support workers create an environment where residents feel valued and capable. This foundation not only enhances the quality of care but also empowers residents to engage fully with the opportunities available to them. 

Rewards and Challenges 

While the role of a support worker is deeply rewarding, it also comes with its challenges. The demands of the job can be both physical and emotional, requiring resilience and dedication. “It’s not always easy,” Harninder admits. “But when you see a individual achieve something they never thought possible, it makes everything worth it.” 

One of Harninder’s most memorable moments involved helping an individual navigate a shopping trip independently. “Watching him pick out items, load them onto the conveyor belt, and pack his shopping bags—it was such a proud moment for both of us,” he recalls. “It’s those little victories that remind you why this work is so important.” 

The role also requires a proactive mindset, as support workers are often responsible for planning activities and finding ways to keep the people they support engaged. Creativity and enthusiasm are essential traits for anyone considering this career, as is a genuine passion for making a difference. “You have to want to do this job for the right reasons,” Harninder emphasises. “It’s not about the pay—it’s about helping people live their best lives.” 

For support workers at The Hub, the role is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to create meaningful change, one day at a time. Through their dedication and compassion, they help residents build the skills, confidence, and independence needed to thrive, making The Hub a truly transformative place. 

The Hub: Empowering Lives and Building Independence

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

At the heart of Progress, The Hub is a vibrant supported living service dedicated to transforming the lives of young adults. Helmed by Kimberley Parkes, the service lead, and Rachael Thompson, the registered manager, The Hub fosters a nurturing environment where residents can achieve their full potential.  

The service is specially designed to support young adults between the ages of 18 and 27, offering a safe, inclusive space that empowers them to embrace independence while receiving the care they need. With its person-centered approach, The Hub is a vital lifeline for individuals and their families, providing more than just support—it offers hope, progress, and a brighter future. 

A Vision Beyond Care 

The Hub is guided by a vision that extends far beyond traditional care. It is a place where young adults are empowered to take control of their lives, no matter their circumstances. Residents with life-limiting or degenerative conditions are encouraged to achieve meaningful milestones, such as visiting the seaside for the first time or mastering life skills like preparing a meal. These achievements, while seemingly small, represent monumental steps toward independence and confidence for many residents. The team works tirelessly to create experiences that promote dignity and self-worth, helping individuals see beyond their limitations and focus on what they can achieve. 

Beyond its immediate impact on residents, The Hub’s philosophy reflects a deep commitment to community and inclusion. By emphasising normality and opportunity, the service ensures that residents feel a sense of belonging and self-respect. This philosophy inspires not only those living at The Hub but also their families and the community around them, demonstrating that every life is valuable and worth celebrating. Every success story becomes a testament to the profound impact of tailored, compassionate care, making The Hub a shining example of what supported living can accomplish. 

Central to this vision is the idea of fostering a future where every individual, regardless of their challenges, has the opportunity to thrive. The team at The Hub understands that empowerment comes in many forms, from encouraging small daily victories to helping residents achieve lifelong goals. This vision not only shapes the daily work of The Hub but also sets a standard for excellence in supported living services. By prioritising each resident’s unique journey, The Hub creates an environment where transformation and growth are both possible and celebrated. 

The Hub’s dedication to this vision ensures that it remains a leader in supported living. By focusing on the individual needs and aspirations of its residents, The Hub redefines care as a collaborative, empowering process. It is this holistic and forward-thinking approach that makes The Hub an invaluable resource for young adults and their families. 

Diverse Support Services 

The Hub’s services are as diverse as the individuals it supports, ensuring that each person receives care tailored to their specific needs. The service accommodates residents within its supported living facility while extending support to families in the surrounding community. This dual approach allows The Hub to cater to a wide spectrum of requirements, from those who need complex medical care to individuals seeking guidance in their journey toward greater independence. The variety of services reflects The Hub’s commitment to meeting individuals where they are and helping them move forward. 

For residents with complex needs, The Hub provides specialised care, including moving and positioning, peg feeding, and epilepsy management. These services are delivered with precision and compassion, ensuring the highest standards of care. At the same time, The Hub supports individuals with autism, ADHD, or other developmental conditions, helping them navigate daily challenges while building the skills and confidence to live more independently. This comprehensive approach ensures that The Hub is a place where all needs—physical, emotional, and social—are met. 

The community support aspect of The Hub is equally robust. By working closely with families, The Hub helps create a supportive network that extends beyond its walls. This collaborative effort strengthens the impact of its services, enabling young adults to thrive in their communities. Social workers and other external partners also play a crucial role, referring individuals to The Hub and helping tailor care plans that align with each person’s unique circumstances and goals. 

At the heart of these services is a commitment to fostering independence and dignity. Whether it’s through rehabilitation programs, daily living support, or community integration activities, The Hub’s services are designed to empower residents and their families. This holistic approach ensures that everyone involved benefits from the care and support provided, creating a ripple effect of positive change. 

A Typical Day at The Hub 

Life at The Hub is as dynamic and engaging as the individuals it supports. A typical day balances meeting basic needs, such as personal care and domestic tasks, with activities that promote growth, independence, and joy. Residents are encouraged to participate in daily routines, from preparing meals to organising their living spaces. These tasks not only instil a sense of responsibility but also help build valuable life skills that contribute to their independence over time. 

Physical and recreational activities form a core part of the daily schedule. Residents may attend physiotherapy sessions, participate in swimming for rehabilitation, or engage in hobbies that bring them joy and fulfilment. Each activity is tailored to the individual’s abilities and interests, ensuring that they are both challenging and rewarding. This approach helps residents stay active and engaged, promoting physical health and emotional well-being. 

The Hub’s staff play a crucial role in making each day meaningful. They work closely with residents to plan activities, set goals, and celebrate achievements. This collaborative dynamic ensures that residents feel supported and empowered, fostering a sense of agency in their own lives. Whether it’s organizing a day trip, helping with rehabilitation exercises, or simply sharing a moment of laughter, the staff are dedicated to making every day at The Hub memorable. 

What truly sets The Hub apart is its emphasis on creativity and initiative. Residents and staff alike are encouraged to explore new opportunities, from discovering local events to trying out new hobbies. This proactive approach ensures that life at The Hub is never stagnant but always evolving, offering residents and staff alike the chance to grow and thrive. 

The Team Behind the Success 

The Hub’s dedicated team is the backbone of its success. Led by Rachael and Kim, the team embodies qualities such as kindness, trustworthiness, and enthusiasm. Kim emphasises that while technical skills can be taught, traits like compassion and a positive attitude are innate and indispensable. This focus on character ensures that every team member contributes to the supportive and empowering environment that defines The Hub. 

The team’s diversity is another strength, with members bringing a wide range of skills and experiences to their roles. This diversity allows The Hub to cater to the unique needs of each resident, pairing them with staff whose expertise aligns with their requirements. Whether managing complex medical needs or providing emotional support, the team works collaboratively to ensure that every resident receives the best possible care. 

A culture of growth and development permeates the team at The Hub. Many staff members, including Kimberley, have advanced through various roles within Progress, gaining valuable experience along the way. This commitment to professional development not only benefits the staff but also enhances the quality of care provided to the people they support. By investing in their team, Progress ensures that The Hub remains at the forefront of supported living services. 

Finally, the team’s passion and dedication create a vibrant and inspiring atmosphere. Their commitment to empowering residents and fostering independence is evident in everything they do. By prioritising kindness, trust, and initiative, the team at The Hub continues to make a profound difference in the lives of the young adults they serve. It is this unwavering dedication that makes The Hub a truly exceptional place to live and work. 

A Day in the Life: Renee’s Journey at The Hub

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Renee, a support worker (supported living) at The Hub Service at Progress, brings a vibrant and compassionate spirit to her role, making a significant impact on the lives of young adults with severe learning disabilities and complex needs. Renee recently shared her experiences, daily routines, and the joy she finds in her work. 

Originally from Bermuda, Renee’s career began in sales and retail before she moved to the UK seven years ago. She joined Progress a little over a year ago and quickly adapted to her new role. Reflecting on her journey, Renee said, “I just come in, and whatever the young person feels like doing, we do. My plan is to have fun, take care of them the best I can, and make sure they enjoy their life.” 

A typical day for Renee involves a mix of activities tailored to the needs and preferences of the young adults she supports. She explained, “If the young person feels like going out, we go out. If not, we find fun things to do indoors.” Her flexibility and enthusiasm are key to creating a positive and engaging environment for the residents. 

One of the most memorable moments for Renee was a birthday celebration for a young girl at The Hub. “We had an animal man come, and all the young people were excited to see and hold the animals. Everyone had fun, and it went smoothly. The birthday girl was so happy; she said, ‘I love you. This is nice.’ It warmed my heart,” Renee recalled. 

Despite the challenges, Renee finds immense fulfilment in her work. She emphasised, “My goal is to make them have fun and enjoy different things. Seeing them smile and engage with people warms my heart.” Her dedication to ensuring that each day is enjoyable and meaningful for the residents is evident in her approach. 

Renee also highlighted the supportive and family-like atmosphere among the team at The Hub. “We stick together and help each other out. Management is always there to support us, and I appreciate how they meet me halfway, especially when I have to adjust my work schedule due to personal issues,” she said. 

When asked about the qualities needed to excel in her role, Renee mentioned patience, clarity, teamwork, and good communication. “I know passion and patience are crucial,” she added. 

Renee’s journey at The Hub is a testament to the transformative power of dedicated care and a positive attitude. Her ability to create a fun and nurturing environment not only enriches the lives of the young adults she supports but also brings her a sense of joy and accomplishment. As she continues to grow in her role, Renee remains committed to making a difference, one smile at a time. 

If you are suitably qualified and have a passion for working with young people in a supportive and dynamic environment, we encourage you to explore the career opportunities at Progress. Click here to learn more about our current vacancies and how you can become part of The Hub family. 

Empowering and Amplifying Children’s Voices at Progress

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Supporting the young people under the care of Progress extends far beyond mere rhetoric; it’s a fundamental ethos deeply embedded within our values. Every day, we actively seek innovative ways to empower each individual and provide platforms for expression, ensuring their voices resonate throughout Progress. 

This week, we are thrilled to showcase two pioneering initiatives aimed at fostering communication and nurturing essential life skills among the young people we have the privilege to support: the introduction of a small post box and the re-launch of the Voices of Progress initiative. 

Angeline Freer, Head of Corporate and Commercial Services at Progress recently donated a vibrant red post box, to facilitate an exciting avenue for interactive expression. Angeline purchased the post box as she recognised its potential to spark young people’s imaginations and build skills for everyday life. Being small in stature, the small post box delivers inclusivity for wheelchair users and those who’s height does not enable them to reach a normal post box. 

Angeline envisions the post box facilitating a wide range of activities, offering young people the opportunity to deposit letters, cards, and feedback. Cultural festivals and birthdays etc. prompt the children to convey messages to their families, caregivers, or support network, fostering a sense of independence and agency, along with feedback on our services during Voices of Progress events. Located at our Resources Centre, the box is accessible to young people across Progress’ diverse services. 

Beyond its practical function, the post box serves as a vital tool for skill development. Simple tasks like mailing a letter can pose challenges for some children and adolescents. Engaging in this activity not only cultivates communication skills but also provides insight into the workings of the postal system, fostering a deeper connection to the community through meaningful participation. 

The post box’s arrival has sparked curiosity and enthusiasm, reinforcing Progress’ unwavering commitment to nurturing young people’s growth. This innovative addition provides a unique platform for children to share their perspectives, thereby bolstering their confidence in articulating their thoughts. 

Voices of Progress 

During a recent event hosted by Progress’ outstanding fostering service, children were invited to express their thoughts about their foster carers. This week, we are privileged to share the heartfelt messages of four children, accompanied by poignant reflections from the fostering service highlighting each child’s individuality. 

This initiative underscores Progress’ steadfast dedication to amplifying the voices of every child and young person under our care, ensuring that their experiences are heard, valued, and prioritised.

World Autism Awareness Day: Progress’ autism-aware approach

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Tuesday 2 April 2024 is World Autism Awareness Day

 

The United Nations General Assembly unanimously declared 2 April as World Autism Awareness Day to highlight the need to help improve the quality of life of those with autism so they can lead full and meaningful lives as an integral part of society.

Autism is a lifelong neurological condition that manifests during early childhood, irrespective of gender, race or socio-economic status. The term Autism Spectrum refers to a range of characteristics. Appropriate support, accommodation and acceptance of this neurological variation allow those on the Spectrum to enjoy equal opportunity, and full and effective participation in society.

Autism is mainly characterised by its unique social interactions, non-standard ways of learning, keen interests in specific subjects, inclination to routines, challenges in typical communications and particular ways of processing sensory information.

The rate of autism in all regions of the world is high and the lack of understanding has a tremendous impact on the individuals, their families and communities.

The stigmatisation and discrimination associated with neurological differences remain substantial obstacles to diagnosis and therapies, an issue that must be addressed by both public policymakers in developing nations, as well as donor countries.

700,000

 

There are 700,000 autistic people in the UK – that’s more than 1 in 100. If you include their families, autism is a part of daily life for 2.8 million people.

30%

 

Just 30% of autistic adults in the UK are in any form of paid employment. This is amongst the lowest rates of employment for people with additional needs or disabilities.

3x

 

Autism is 3 times more prevalent in boys than girls. Signs of autism in girls can present themselves differently and as a result can be misdiagnosed or missed leading to more boys getting a diagnosis.

Progress’ autism-aware approach to interior design

“Colours can have a profound impact, especially for children with autism. We strive to create adaptable spaces where colours can be changed to suit individual preferences, ensuring the environment remains stimulating and comforting.” 

At the core of Progress’ approach to interior design is the concept of sensory design. We utilise principles such as space, colour, texture, form, and light to create spaces that meet the unique sensory requirements of the children they care for. These principles are not just about aesthetics; they are fundamental in addressing the sensory needs of the children.

Preet Anand, founder of Mood Interiors, has been instrumental in redefining the role of interior design at Progress’ homes. Preet and her team approach each Progress project by understanding the specific needs of the children. She described it as a comprehensive process that takes into account the individual requirements of each child.

In sensory design, colour plays a pivotal role. Preet says, “Colours can have a profound impact, especially for children with autism. We strive to create adaptable spaces where colours can be changed to suit individual preferences, ensuring the environment remains stimulating and comforting.”

5 minutes with…Tom

Posted on by Angeline Westley

The Team Leader at Oak Cottage, on the benefits of working together, his life experience, and being yourself at Progress.

I grew up in challenging circumstances. I was brought up in care and was in foster care too. So, I can relate to the young people I care for and empathise with them.

I can be myself at Progress. Working in care is better than working in an office. I have done both, and I can honestly say that working in care has allowed me to be myself. You will not be thrown into the deep end at Progress. I was given plenty of time to do all my training and got to shadow senior staff too.

Working collaboratively is important. One of the things that I love about Progress is that all the staff are open and accessible. I am pretty curious by nature, and I ask many questions because I want to do well. When I first started working here, the staff helped me gain more confidence in my role.

I have experience to share. For example, if a young person has sensory overload, I can show my colleagues what triggers they need to avoid or what activities they should engage the young person in. If someone is unsure, I am there to help. Providing support is what we do.

Supporting my team is part of my job. As Team Leader I make sure a proper handover has been done. This means the night staff know what has happened in the day with the young people and what they need to look out for. I can then relax knowing the young people are safe and happy, and I have made sure all staff know what they are doing.

This is a career for life. I have a lot to learn, but I would love to be a manager or foster carer. So many children across the UK need some extra support. If you want to change a child’s life – this is for you.

If you want to make difference in the lives of others, visit our recruitment page and apply for a role at Progress today.

 

Progress turns 21!

Posted on by Angeline Westley

As we begin our year long festivities celebrating 21 years of supporting children and young people, Progress Chief Executive Bal Dhanoa and Chief Financial Officer Raj Dhanoa have a special message for our staff.

“Thank you all for your continued support, commitment, and dedication to Progress.

  • We are proud of our journey so far, we continue to make happy memories for our young people, so when they reach ‘adulthood’ they can reflect back and think of their time at Progress and what that means for them
  • We are proud to give stability to those needing long term care
  • We are proud to provide a range of amazing support services and care options to so many in our communities through our Hub teams
  • We are proud to expand our residential care portfolio across the Midlands – each home have their own unique offerings
  • We are proud of our foster carers, some whom have been with us right from the start of our journey and all those joining us now and, in the future

Reflecting on the time when this journey started for me, it was just a vision of what can be achieved. We started from humble beginnings and I am so blessed and proud of how the family of Progress has grown over the 21 years. Our journey has been incredible with many ripples and mountains to climb along the way. I am so proud to have such amazing people, who have been part of this journey and truly make a difference and uphold strong values as we continue to make memories.

During this journey we have had so many wonderful staff that have worked with us and developed their career paths – some moving on to achieve their own journeys and even retuning back to us. There are many of our staff who have worked with us for several years and developed their skills and moved on to senior positions within Progress. To all of you our heartfelt thank you.

There are those angels in our journey who have truly understood my vision, my passion, and have put up with my madness, in good and bad times, and have enabled my deepest desire to provide the best that we can to all vulnerable young people in our care. They remain constant, focused, always protecting us, and have been there from the start. A special thank you to our MD Claire. Without you this journey would not have been possible.

As we continue to prosper we hope and pray that we can continue to serve and make a difference in people’s lives, and continue to improve career opportunities for you all as you go through this wonderful journey with us. Always look to the future and learn from the past!

Happy 21st birthday to Progress as we all look forward to celebrating many more in years to come”.

Bal & Raj.

Keep visiting Progresscare.co.uk for further 21st celebration updates. #progress21

My Progress experience: Harry

Posted on by Angeline Westley

My name is Harry.

I am a teenager with Autism.

After suffering several losses within my close family, I could not understand and control my feelings, which led to my behaviours hurting those closest to me. I lacked confidence and did not like leaving the house. My home is where I feel comfortable and safe. The thought of any activities outside gave me anxiety, and it would take 30 minutes to coax me out of the house.

Progress matched me with a Support Worker, Julian.  We clicked and talked about working together to explore ways of increasing my confidence.

Julian and I

As Julian started to visit me once a week, I felt my confidence grow. I was able to open up to Julian about gaming and other things that are important to me. We would go for a walk down the canal and talk about things in my life. I could use these conversations and create scenarios in my head that would help me overcome personal hurdles.

I love gaming, but Julian knew nothing about PlayStation or Xbox. I took it upon myself to educate Julian about the games I play. Julian is getting better, but I still win every time we play!

Julian is not just my ‘carer’; he is somebody I can talk to and take guidance from.

Getting out of my comfort zone

I now do activities I had never regularly done before. For example, for the first time, I went out to eat and paid the bill myself. A year ago, I would never have had the confidence to speak to someone and ask for anything.

Remember when I said it used to take 30 minutes to coax me out of the house? Now I am happy to leave straight away.

Happier than I have ever been

I recently made the transition from secondary school to college, and I enjoy learning.

I have also started going to the gym and have taken an interest in health & nutrition. Progress has helped me gain further knowledge about health & nutrition with online training to stay fit and eat well.

Being able to manage my feelings has now helped me become a happier and more active person!