A celebration of the Thrive Personal Development Service has taken place to show the importance of the programme.
Since it started in July, Inspire have helped almost 300 young people build their confidence in a way that is tailored to support them.
Held at Suffolk New College’s Chefs’ Whites restaurant, the event brought together all of the partners involved.
Speaking of Inspire’s involvement with Thrive, Post 16 Project Manager Jackie Partridge said: “We’re really proud to be part of this great collaboration with the colleges and other great organisations.
“As an organisation ourselves, we are so proud to be part of the journey we’re on with Thrive. The amount of people we’ve worked with since Thrive first started is a huge accomplishment.
“That’s all down to the team, all of their hard work and dedication so far.”
Jackie went on to highlight the journey of Liam who was referred to Thrive coach Mollie by his dad.
Liam has a rare form of cancer and has found it difficult in the past to get into work.
But Thrive has been working closely with him to improve his confidence, to build new skills and see really what his passions are.
He went on a gardening maintenance course, and importantly improved his confidence and made some new friends.
Liam is currently interviewing for jobs, and is still working on his journey to improve his confidence.
The event also highlighted Emily, another person who has had a big journey with Thrive.
When she joined, she was a selective mute, only communicating in her one-to-one’s by nodding and shaking her head.
She worked with coach Lisa who focused on building their trust. Lisa also referred Emily to our well-being service, and got her involved with The Nest, a charity based on a farm that utilise working with the animals and being in nature to help the young people they work with.
Before her first session with The Nest, Emily had a huge breakthrough and spoke to Lisa for the first time, to thank her. She now can’t stop talking and is continuing to attend the Nest to improve her confidence and wellbeing.
Lisa said: “To me, this just goes to show that when you find the right setting for a young person, they can begin to flourish in ways that neither I nor they had ever thought possible.”
Jackie continued: “These journeys are extraordinary, and we have so many more stories and journeys to tell.
“Without Thrive, this wouldn’t be possible and we are so grateful to everyone has shared their stories, and we hope that it will encourage other people who are a bit unsure whether this is the right path for them.”
She continued: “Thrive is unique as it allows for young people to work with many different organisations that support them from start to finish. It means that no one gets lost in the process, instead being supported for their entire journey as they reach their goals.
“Inspire play a crucial role in Thrive, and without all the elements, Thrive wouldn’t be as successful as it has been today.”
