From the very beginning you have been there for Joel (and us) helping him.
Joel was referred to Steps in November 2022 as he was struggling to attend his mainstream school. His attendance at school for the previous 12 months was 21%. The last 3 months was 0%. Such a low percentage was due to Joel’s anxiety and depression making facing school too much. It had got to the point where Joel was refusing to leave the house and even his bedroom.
School put Joel’s mum in touch with Steps. At first, she visited alone as Joel refused but she reported back to him that it was a place completely different to school which he might like. Joel’s first visit was curtailed as he refused to get out of the car, but a barrier had been broken as he had left the house to travel to a strange environment.
On the second visit Joel got out of the car and had a look inside the centre and met some of the staff. Joel liked what he saw and agreed to come and spend a morning with some of the students. This was a success and Joel started attending for a day a week at first which was increased to 2 days and then 3 as he grew in confidence and made some friends, something he had always struggled with at school.
At first learning was a challenge for Joel as his own confidence was still low and he didn’t want to be seen to fail. The patient and skilled staff at Steps took their time and encouraged Joel to take some risks with his learning. Over time Joel started to partake fully in lessons and enjoyed the success he was having. Going off site with other students and staff became something that he enjoyed, particularly getting involved in the sporting activities such as football and the fitness gym. He went on to play for the Steps football team and captained it on a few occasions.
His attendance at Steps over 18 months was 78%, up from 21% when attending his mainstream school.
After 18 months at Steps Joel left with Functional Skills qualification in English and Maths and the offer of a place at college on a multi-trade course. He had grown in confidence enormously and had made some good friends.
We feel incredibly lucky to have had STEPS in Joel’s corner, always helping, giving encouragement. You have helped him come so very far. Thank you for everything you have given us, you are all amazing for what you do!
Models used and names changed to protect privacy
