Introduction

YEP, a UK Government-funded initiative started through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and now supported directly by Cornwall Council, supports disadvantaged young people aged 16-24 in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Launched in January 2024 and running until March 2026, the project focuses on those who are NEET or at risk of NEET, have SEN, or belong to other vulnerable groups.

NN joined the programme with the aspiration of becoming more confident leaving the house and engaging in social situations. Communication and social interaction were significant causes of anxiety. NN also wanted to develop the skills and confidence needed to search and apply for jobs independently.

Our Role

We provided one-to-one support to help NN build confidence and develop employability skills. Initially, this involved practical support with job searching and applications, before moving to a lighter-touch approach as NN became more independent.

As NN's confidence grew, they became more comfortable taking positive steps towards employment and engaging with opportunities independently.

Building Confidence Through Real-World Experiences

Throughout their time on the programme, NN has gradually become more confident in everyday situations and community settings.

Key milestones include:

• Starting their first volunteering role with Cornwall Hospice Care
• Volunteering two days a week for the past two months
• Increasing the amount of time spent socialising with friends
• Going shopping independently, something they had not previously felt confident doing
• Becoming more comfortable communicating with others in both social and workplace environments

These experiences have helped NN build confidence, independence, and a more positive outlook towards the future.

Impact

Through their involvement with the YEP! Programme, NN has:

• Gained confidence in the job application process
• Developed the ability to search and apply for opportunities independently
• Started their first volunteering role
• Improved confidence in communication and social situations
• Become more comfortable with the idea of work and future employment
• Developed greater confidence in their ability to contribute in workplace settings

NN now feels more hopeful about their future and more confident in pursuing employment opportunities.

Participant Testimonial

"Prior to my time with YEP Project, I wasn't sure how to go about job-searching and spent ages feeling too overwhelmed to properly try. The support and opportunities I've been offered by YEP have helped me get out of this tough spot.

Since joining the YEP project, I've been able to apply and even start my first volunteering job. I never would've had the confidence to do that without the help I have received.

Before I joined the YEP project, I was very worried I wouldn't get into work as I was too anxious over the idea. I struggled with the thought of conversation, and it held me back from doing what I wanted to do. Now I feel more comfortable working and find communication to not be as difficult as I once thought.

I am very grateful to have the YEP project available to me, it really has helped me progress and I feel more hopeful for my future."

– NN

Pathways Coordinator Testimonial

"It has been brilliant to see the progression in NN's ambition, courage and confidence throughout their engagement with the programme. The YEP! Programme combined with the knowledge and support of colleagues allowed me to focus on NN's specific employment needs. I genuinely believe that with new skills and confidence NN will go on to do really positive work in the community and have a really bright future in their chosen field."

– Pathways Coordinator