REAL LIFE STORIES
LEO – CASE STUDY
LEO CASE STUDY
Care leaver, motivated young man who continues to work alongside LCT.
MENTORED
BY SHELLEY
Background
Leo was referred by his school, an independent setting that supports young people with childhood trauma. Having experienced multiple Adverse Childhood Experiences, Leo was in care. At the time of referral, his college placement had fallen through and he was not in education, employment, or training (NEET). Despite this, he remained highly aspirational and was motivated to achieve his goals. Leo was also experiencing challenges with his mental health, often triggered by issues related to his past. As a result, developing and implementing effective coping strategies was a key priority for him.
Mentoring
As Leo was NEET, securing a college placement was an immediate priority. With support from his previous school, his care home, and his mentor, this was quickly achieved and Leo successfully obtained a place. Leo then identified new goals, including improving his budgeting skills and working towards learning to drive. Shelley supported him in applying for his provisional driving licence and beginning preparation for his theory test. Leo also secured a part-time job, and his mentor provided practical tools, such as budgeting apps, to help him manage his finances effectively. Alongside these practical achievements, Shelley also supported Leo in exploring and processing his thoughts
“Shelley was a great person to talk with and she has supported me with my future. She has inspired me to try very hard on all my goals”.
Where are they now?
Two years after completing his mentoring, Leo remains actively involved with the charity. He has joined the Youth Board, where he contributes his voice and feedback to help shape and develop the organisation. He regularly attends activities, continuing to build positive relationships with other young people.
Leo is currently undertaking an apprenticeship in Civil Groundworks, living independently in Exeter, and has his driving test booked
