Joshua's Story

Josh has completed NCFE Level 1 and has now successfully secured a teaching assistant placement at St Thomas of Canterbury primary school in order to complete his Level 2. Good luck Josh! Josh states that he is now very confident and optimistic about his future. Unfortunately, however, this was not always the case.

Before becoming involved with Making Space, Josh has stated, “I felt like I was in a dark place, I had been unwell and was becoming very socially isolated. It seemed my life was going nowhere and that there was no light at the end of the tunnel. I thought that I was just wasting my days away. It was then that my social worker and care co-ordinator put me in contact with Making Space. At first, I was apprehensive about a move to the Yorkshire Gardens scheme, as I felt I had become set in my ways. However, after a meeting with scheme manager Mrs Caroline Anders and support worker Shaun Topping, I was immediately put at ease and was impressed to learn all that the scheme could offer. After moving in to my flat in December, I can truly say that staff have made good on their promises and that my life has turned around so much for the better. I have got to know all the other staff at Yorkshire Gardens; Caroline (manager) John A, John W, Rom, Lorraine, Nicole and Michaela. I can honestly say that nothing is too much for them. They have been supportive in every aspect of independent living skills, from arranging courses and activities to budgeting, benefits and helping me maintain my flat. Sometimes it can be something as simple as having a welcoming cuppa with staff if I am feeling a little down or stressed. I have also made new friends amongst the other residents, who also enjoy life at the scheme. This has led me to no longer feeling isolated and increased my self-esteem. I feel I am on the up and up once more!”