Ryan's Story

Ryan's success with YEP.

Referred from the People Hub, Ryan joined the YEP Project looking for support with job searching and training opportunities. As someone with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), he needed tailored guidance.

Building Confidence After Setbacks

Ryan shared with his adviser, Jane, that school had been a difficult experience. After leaving, he completed a Study Programme and worked in a factory, but the job lasted only four days. He had attended a few interviews but hadn’t secured a role. These experiences affected his confidence. He admitted feeling scared and anxious about his future.

Ryan has ADHD, which he doesn’t see as a barrier - but he feels others sometimes do. He explained that his lack of experience makes job hunting harder. Despite applying for jobs, he often doesn’t hear back, which is discouraging. He has had a few interviews but gets nervous and sometimes says the wrong things.

Taking Steps Toward His Dream

To help with job applications, Jane arranged a laptop for Ryan to use. She did this through the Digital Inclusion Scheme, as he had been relying on his phone. Ryan shared that his dream job is in the IT industry, and he’s looking for a role that offers support and training.

Jane and Ryan discussed ways to build his IT skills. He agreed to join an Adult Education course to gain a qualification and experience.

Exploring Supported Internships

Jane introduced Ryan to Project Search and Supported Internships offered by Cornwall Council. These internships provide real work experience with support and can lead to paid employment. Ryan could also continue claiming Universal Credit. He could do this because internships are part of an education programme.

Jane supported Ryan through the application process, and he was offered an interview.

Overcoming Travel Barriers

Ryan wasn’t sure how to get to Truro for his interview. Although he had a bus pass, the journey required three changes. He had never travelled by train and wasn’t even sure if he’d been to Truro before. Jane met him at the train station and helped him buy a ticket. She also helped him understand train times and how to find platforms.

Ryan took part in mock sessions before the interview to help him prepare. This helped to build his confidence before his interview.

“It was nerve-racking being in such a big space, but exciting to know that’s where councillors make decisions.” – Ryan

Success and Next Steps

Ryan completed two interviews at the council offices. This included one in the council chamber. He impressed the panel and was offered a Supported Internship starting in September. He will work across different departments and attend Cornwall College one day a week. Ryan said he is really excited to begin.

Jane contacted the Jobcentre to explore funding for a railcard to help with travel costs. The college will support his bus travel each week.

To help build confidence and teamwork skills, Jane supported Ryan. With support Ryan applied for a volunteering role. at his local British Heart Foundation shop over the summer.