“The program helped me find my voice” – Aaron’s Story

A young person (Aaron) showing his qualification from the Princes Trust programme

Background

Aaron is 19 years old and from Higginshaw Village in Oldham. Before the Prince’s Trust programme, Aaron was severely lacking in confidence. His social skills were virtually non-existent and his anxiety was through the roof.

Aaron spent most of his time in his bedroom, not seeing natural day light for days on end. Sleeping, eating, gaming and socialising with virtual friends rather than interacting with people in person.

Joining the Prince’s Trust TEAM programme

Aaron joined Groundwork’s Prince’s Trust TEAM programme in Oldham after finding out about it from a friend. He was apprehensive at first but decided to go for it as he felt he needed some change in his life.

At first, he found every excuse under the sun not to head down to the Team room but fast forward 12 weeks and he didn’t want to leave! The programme provided Aaron with opportunities to connect with people in a similar situation to him and with similar interests and as a result he gain lifelong friends.

Princes Trust Programme highlights

Although the whole programme was enjoyed by Aaron, week 2 was a personal highlight. The activity week encouraged him to step out of his comfort zone, face his fears and achieve milestones he never thought he could. Aaron explained that the Groundwork team created an environment where he didn’t feel rejected, ridiculed or judged.

Left: A young person (Aaron) abseiling down a rock. Middle: Aaron presenting a project. Right: Aaron working in a yard. Activities for the Princes Trust programme

Aaron pushed his social boundaries even further during his 2-week work placement at Zen Internet in Rochdale. During this part of the programme Aaron experienced what the world of work was like and he was pleasantly surprised.

Young people learning IT skills as part of the Princes Trust programme

In addition to his work placement, Aaron gained new qualifications in First Aid with a Defibrillator, his Level 1 in Safety & Health, Level 1 in Personal Money Management and the overall qualification; Prince’s Trust Qualification in Employment, Teamwork and Community Skills.

What’s next?

Aaron is busy applying for part-time employment opportunities in the IT technical support sector. He believes starting work on a part-time basis will allow him to settle into a new lifestyle before making a big change.

Aaron added,

The program helped me find my voice and realise that I can work and do belong in the working world which I never believed. As well as making me feel more confident in myself through the comradery and bond I formed over the 12 weeks.