I'm working with a 15-year-old in her last year at school. She is bright, but seems to have no aspirations and says there is no point in trying. I'm really worried about her potential to fall through the net.
One of my mum's favourite expressions is: "The world is your oyster – it's up to you to open it." But this is easier said than done for many. This is where you come in. Intensive mentoring support and structured resilience and confidence building can make all the difference to a young person who feels there is no hope.
It will take time to build her confidence and belief in herself. Talk to her about her aspirations, what she enjoys doing and her best subjects at school, and use resources such as FPA's Life Happens resilience building manual. Are there any work placement schemes in your area or other services that would give her a taste of working life and help her decide what she might like to do? The simple act of belief and support for a young person, enabling them to take small steps towards their life goals, can't be underestimated.
Jeanie Lynch works for Barnardo's and has 25 years' experience of working with vulnerable children and families
Email questions, marked "Experts", to cypnow@markallengroup.com
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