When Tim* first came along to the Mix, the SEND youth club at the Waterside Centre, he was quiet, unsure of himself and lacking in confidence. He stayed within what felt safe and familiar, hesitant to try new activities or engage beyond the group, and unsure of his place among others. With time, patience and consistent support from staff, that began to change.

By the start of the following year, Tim was already showing clear progress. He began speaking more with staff, sharing his ideas and showing interest in taking on small responsibilities within the Mix, clear signs of growing confidence.
A key turning point came in June, when Tim was invited to help at a local school fete. In this environment, he showed a new level of confidence. Staff saw a different side of him, enthusiastic and proud, as he spoke clearly about the youth club and explained what the Mix offered. For the first time, Tim wasn’t just attending, he was representing.

From there, his confidence continued to grow. Over the summer and into September, Tim began taking on new challenges. He joined paddleboarding and climbing sessions and volunteered at community events, including the Newbury Show. These experiences strengthened his confidence, resilience and sense of belonging. In recognition of this progress, Tim was offered a Young Leader role within the Mix. He became a valued support to both staff and peers, helping other young people understand activities, leading small games and offering encouragement. He showed patience, empathy and developing leadership skills.

Tim also began regularly supporting junior holiday clubs, building independence and responsibility. He started travelling to sessions independently, managing his time, leading activities and building positive relationships with younger children. He proudly referred to this role as his “work”, reflecting the pride he felt. Staff quickly recognised his impact. Tim showed strong behaviour management skills, confidently supporting younger children and leading small groups. Young people gravitated towards him and saw him as a role model. He also developed the ability to reflect on his own practice, showing growing maturity.

Today, Tim’s transformation is clear.

He has gone from a shy young person, unsure of himself and hesitant to engage, to a confident, independent and valued young leader. His journey highlights the impact of consistent support, meaningful opportunities and positive youth work.

*Names have been changed to protect young people’s identity