Case Study | Empowering a Young Person to Thrive Through Tailored Support
A young person (YP) was referred to Positive Futures due to long-standing challenges in accessing education that met his emotional and developmental needs. From an early age, his parents consistently advocated for him, recognising his unique strengths and needs. Despite being misunderstood and unfairly labelled, the YP showed remarkable resilience, self-awareness, and a strong desire for change.
Strengths-Based Goals and Collaborative Planning
Working in partnership with the YP, our Targeted Support Worker co-developed a personalised support plan focused on:
- Celebrating strengths and building self-belief through consistent praise and achievable goals.
- Enhancing emotional intelligence, helping the YP understand the impact of his actions and make thoughtful decisions.
- Exploring future aspirations, linking current efforts to long-term goals to increase motivation.
- Building resilience and reducing anxiety through tailored emotional regulation strategies.
Holistic, Person-Centred Support
Over 19 one-to-one sessions, the YP engaged in a wide range of activities designed to support his growth and wellbeing:
- Advocacy in school settings, amplifying his voice and influencing positive changes such as a revised timetable and learning environment.
- Sensory and emotional regulation, identifying triggers and co-developing coping strategies.
- Confidence and self-esteem building through creative activities and guided reflection.
- Reframing education, helping the YP reshape his narrative around learning and identify what works for him.
- Social and communication skills, supporting more confident engagement with peers and adults.
- Routine and sleep support, promoting emotional stability and readiness for learning.
- Academic encouragement, reducing anxiety and building confidence in core subjects.
- Future-focused planning, encouraging the YP to envision his future self and take ownership of his journey.
- Creating a safe space, where the YP felt consistently heard, validated, and supported.
Outcomes and Positive Change
The intervention led to meaningful progress:
- Mind Star score increased from 22 to 24, with notable gains in relationships, school engagement, and self-esteem.
- School attendance improved following the introduction of a personalised timetable that reflected his strengths and preferences.
- A collaborative decision to transition to home education was made, significantly enhancing the YP’s wellbeing and sense of control.
Transformative Impact
The support had a lasting impact on the YP’s confidence, emotional wellbeing, and future outlook:
Family Support Worker:
“Mum said that yesterday was the first day in a long time that he had come home with a smile on his face.”
Parent:
“My son looks forward to his sessions with Georgia, who consistently recognises and nurtures his strengths. Their connection has helped him engage positively and build trust. This service has been transformative for both my son and me.”
Young Person:
“I feel more in control now. I can learn in a way that suits me and I don’t feel overwhelmed all the time.”
Continued Growth and Aspirations
Since transitioning to home education, the YP has flourished:
- Developed personalised study methods that support his sensory and emotional needs.
- Expressed greater focus and self-awareness in a reflective letter to his future self.
- Demonstrated emotional maturity and motivation through achievements and interests:
- 🥋 World Kickboxing Champion, competing internationally.
- ✅ Completed a refereeing course, opening new pathways in sport.
- 🤝 Volunteering at a local school, delivering kickboxing sessions.
- 💡 Exploring financial literacy, including conversations about Bitcoin and investing.
- 📘 Working toward Functional Skills qualifications, showing a proactive approach to education.
- 👨👩👦 Supported by his family, who have invested in resources to help him build independence and life skills.
This case highlights how strengths-based, holistic support can unlock a young person’s potential, foster emotional resilience, and empower them to take confident steps toward a fulfilling future