Jamie's Journey 

Jamie first got involved with the YEP Project in 2024. After talking about the support available, it was decided that he wasn’t ready to take part yet.

In April 2025, YEP continued with UKSPF Year 4 funding. Jamie felt more prepared and wanted to move forward toward future opportunities. At that time, he wasn’t ready to go back into education and didn’t feel confident about getting a job. He said he wanted to learn more about animation and hoped to work in game development one day.

Jamie received support from Cornwall Council, Pentreath, and Mind. These organisations worked together to explore other services that could help him move into work or education. At the same time, Jamie got help applying to Homechoice and the DWP for PIP support.

While accessing these services, research was done to explore paths into games development. It became clear that local options in Cornwall were limited unless he went to university. Jamie was supported in learning about the qualifications available. He discussed the course content, different options, and the facilities at Falmouth University. Based on this, Jamie decided to apply to university, aiming to start in September 2026.

The YEP Project is helping Jamie with his university application. We are also arranging a supported tour of the campus. Once the university confirms his enrolment, YEP will continue to support him with important life skills, like managing money. These skills will help him make the most of this great opportunity.

Jamie’s journey shows that no path should be ruled out. Yep! doesn’t only offer activities—it also gives one-to-one support. YEP, allows each young person to explore the opportunities they are interested in. Where possible, barriers are removed so they have the best chance to succeed.

“Without YEP I wouldn’t have even thought of applying to Uni.” – Jamie, 19/6/25

Brooke’s Journey: From Self-Doubt to Surf Instructor

Background Brooke joined the Youth Engagement Project (YEP) in 2024. She was referred because she struggled with self-confidence. She suffered with social anxiety and was uncertain about her future. She was applying for an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) due to learning difficulties.

Brooke said, “I felt like a failure, and I couldn't see getting past my 17th birthday.”

After a positive year with YEP, the project received more UKSPF funding in 2025. Brooke reached out again to keep building on her progress. She wants to move closer to education, employment, or training.

Challenge

Brooke started a Childcare course at college, thinking it was the right choice. But she soon realised it wasn’t for her. Her low self-worth and anxiety made it hard to stay motivated. She also lacked direction, which made it difficult to make decisions about her future.

Support

Through YEP, Brooke was referred to Argyle Community Trust for one-to-one mentoring. Her mentor helped her rebuild confidence and explore realistic next steps. They met weekly to talk through her concerns and create a personal plan.

Brooke shared her love for physical activity, especially surfing. Her mentor helped her get a gym membership. They also went on active walks at the local athletic track. These sessions helped Brooke reconnect with what made her feel strong and motivated.

Outcome

 In 2025, Brooke made big progress through YEP. She signed up for more support with Argyle Community Trust in April. Soon after, she began training for her Lifeguard and Surf Instructor Qualification. This was with the same group that ran her weekly surf club. She also made new friends and started her first job as a waitress at a local café.

Brooke said, “I am so proud of how far I have come. I am planning my future and so excited for all the opportunities I now have in front of me.”

Her mentor added, “It has been amazing to see how far Brooke has come. Her resilience has grown stronger and stronger, and you can see her independence growing as well.”

Conclusion

Brooke’s story shows how the right support and encouragement can help a young person face challenges and build a better future.