Charlie moved into a tenancy with Moving On Durham in summer 2024. This was following a turbulent and unstable home environment and personal struggles.
Charlie moved into their property displaying signs of shyness, uncertainty and a reluctance to engage. Their support worker would notice discomfort in social situations and hesitancy in discussing any personal issues. However, over time, they began to open up about the difficult circumstances and previous challenges they had experienced during their upbringing, including periods of instability, neglect, and strained family relationships.
From the beginning, support sessions were tailored to build a trusting, open and honest relationship. The young person’s support worker focused on creating a safe and supportive environment. Support visits aimed to help the young person process their historic experiences while gradually shifting focus toward building a more stable and hopeful future.
Charlie’s support worker, together with the young person’s voice and involvement, designed support plans and targets that involved gradually working towards referrals into mental health services and community opportunities, such as the family hub.
With a focus on emotional, mental and physical health, healthy relationships and independent living skills such as budgeting, routines and cleanliness, Charlie has built a fantastic relationship with their support worker and this has opened up a mutual open and positive rapport.
The young person is now pregnant and navigating the challenges of parenthood. While this has brought a sense of purpose and motivation, unfortunately concerns have been raised regarding their ability to parent effectively without robust support.
Recognising the complexity of their situation, the young person has been supported to antenatal and healthcare appointments, assessments and multi-agency meetings. Their support worker has also been present emotionally and to maintain the arrangement of appointments at a time that is understandably overwhelming and daunting.
While challenges remain, and there is a long journey ahead, Charlie has shown notable progress in engaging with not just their support worker but also other professionals and making efforts to prepare for parenthood. There is evidence of improved communication, a growing understanding of responsibilities, and increased willingness to seek and accept help.