Confidently You Case Study
Richard had been out of work for over five years and was struggling with anxiety and depression, which left him feeling increasingly isolated. When he first heard about the Confidently You project, he was understandably hesitant. However, recognising that this could be the support he needed, he agreed to meet with the Project Manager - and was so inspired by what he heard that he enrolled immediately.
The project proved to be life-changing for Richard. The group sessions, social interaction, and engaging activities had a profound impact, offering a welcoming, pressure-free environment. Just as importantly, connecting with others in similar situations helped him to combat loneliness and begin rebuilding his confidence.
A key takeaway for Richard was the power of community and the value of mutual support. The project created a safe space to try new things, develop new skills, and form lasting connections. Even small but thoughtful touches - like providing lunch during sessions - demonstrated a deep understanding of participants’ needs, particularly in light of the ongoing cost of living crisis.
Sam Trueman, Project Support Officer, said: “Confidently You offers something truly unique - a safe, welcoming, and personalised space for people who need support in achieving their goals. From the very first meeting, we work together to map out the next steps, whether that’s finding paid work, volunteering, or joining a work programme.
“One of the most powerful aspects is the peer support. Social interaction can be a real challenge for many, but this programme fosters personal growth in remarkable ways. For example, a young woman who couldn’t speak when she first joined recently read a poem aloud to a group of 34 people. Initially uninterested in employment, she’s now exploring it - thanks to the confidence she’s built. That kind of transformation is incredibly inspiring and motivates everyone to keep progressing.”