“My self-esteem has improved and my anxiety has reduced” – Theo’s Story

Arranging Initial Contact

Theo was referred to Groundwork by Stockport’s Care Leavers Team in 2023. However, despite repeated efforts by our Employment Coach to arrange a meeting, a face-to-face appointment didn’t happen until July 2024. This delay isn’t unusual for individuals who have been in care, as they often face personal challenges and struggle to trust new adults in their lives.

Introductions and Plans for the Future

When Theo finally met with Vanessa, our Employment Coach, he was very open in their conversations. He shared the reasons he had been placed in care, his struggles with addiction, and the severe impact his mental health had on his daily life. Theo explained that he rarely left his flat due to anxiety and paranoia and recounted a distressing experience where he woke up in the middle of the night fighting himself, resulting in a black eye and a bitten tongue.

Vanessa encouraged Theo to think about his future. He expressed interest in a career in the construction sector but doubted that it was achievable anytime soon. Vanessa reassured him that small steps could be taken toward this goal from the comfort of his home. This excited Theo, as he admitted that when he was alone, his mind tended to wander, worsening his paranoia. He saw revision as a good way to occupy his thoughts. Vanessa set him up with access to online learning courses and shared CSCS and Health and Safety revision materials.

Setbacks

Despite a promising start, Theo soon messaged Vanessa to cancel their next meeting, explaining that he didn’t feel able to leave his home. Understanding his situation, Vanessa remained in contact and arranged to meet him closer to where he lived.

When they met, it was clear that Theo’s health had deteriorated. He appeared disheveled, extremely thin, and experienced bouts of aggressive shaking. Vanessa recognized that this wasn’t the right time to discuss his career aspirations and instead focused on ensuring his basic needs were met. Theo admitted that he was out of money and had no food, explaining that he wouldn’t receive any funds until Friday.

Community Support

Vanessa introduced Theo to the Brinnington Community Hub and explained how they could support him. The hub manager made an immediate referral to the free Food Bank. Vanessa spoke to the Food Bank team about Theo’s needs, and they were more than willing to adjust their services to help him. They agreed to increase his donations to a fortnightly schedule and arranged for a quieter 3 p.m. collection time, accommodating his social anxieties. Additionally, Vanessa planned her one-on-one sessions with Theo on Food Bank days so he wouldn’t have to go alone.

Groundwork’s Energy Advice

While at the Community Hub, Vanessa also introduced Theo to one of Groundwork’s Green Doctors, who provide energy support to those in need. The Green Doctor was able to issue Theo a £49 fuel voucher and schedule a home visit to improve his flat’s energy efficiency. Within a week, Groundwork’s Green Doctor, Rob, joined Vanessa for a home visit. He installed small energy-saving measures, such as LED light bulbs and radiator foils, making Theo’s home more comfortable. Rob also contacted British Gas on Theo’s behalf to explore ways to manage his existing debts and future payments.

Next Steps

Theo continues to stay in contact with Vanessa and the Groundwork team. While little progress has been made toward his qualifications and career goals, he feels his self-esteem has improved, and he experiences much less anxiety about his finances.