Luke's story - Youthbuild

Luke was referred to the Youthbuild programme by Includem when he was 16 years old.

Luke had over 30 pre-16 charges including BOP, wilful fire raising, breaking and entering and police assaults.

When he turned 16, he was given a curfew which he broke several times and as a result was placed on remand for 5 days in Polmont Young Offenders Institute.

Training and certification

Luke started the Youthbuild programme and required some support from his key worker with attendance and timekeeping and appropriate behaviour. During the 4 weeks, this improved and he engaged well in the training element of the Youthbuild programme and gained all certifications available.

Placement with DV McColl

Luke was offered a placement with DV McColl who are a Suspended Ceilings and Partition Wall Specialist.

Luke was late a few times through his trial and was absent due to being arrested for outstanding charges but turned this round in his last 2 weeks and was confirmed onto wages.

Luke has turned his life around since coming onto the programme and stays out of trouble. He has now secured an apprenticeship after proving himself to the employer. He is a motivated and proactive worker with good time keeping and attendance.

Life after Youthbuild

Luke’s personal and family finances are tight. His key worker applied for the Barclays Best Foot Forward funding to purchase tools for Luke and he was awarded £350 to spend on tools. Luke has been using the tools provided within his work place and although he has managed to get himself a few personal tools in the time he has been employed, it is generally expected that they young people get their own full set of required tools to use which is what Luke has now been able to do.

The purchase of tools and equipment for Luke enhances his abilities through his practical work associated with his apprenticeship. Luke is delighted to have gained the BFF Grant, it has had a positive effect on him by giving his confidence a real boost.

He now owns tools he never thought he could afford to have and furthermore he has had additional proof that people genuinely want to help him and see him doing well.

Receiving the grant has reaffirmed to Luke that there is ongoing support from multiple sources such as key workers, funders and employers should he require this. It has also provided him with a sense of inclusion and belonging.