Leon was nominated for the award by Carmel Carey-Sheilds for his fantastic commitment towards the SMF Works Employability programme.

Carmel said…

Leon was a credit to himself throughout the programme, demonstrating a real sense of commitment and ambition to succeed. He always arrived on time and was always courteous and polite.

SMF Works Employability programme is designed to deliver key employability skills and build confidence in preparation for work. Working across schools and community groups, the programme delivers transferrable skills in readiness for employment, i.e. communication, team skills, resilience, with an emphasis on building confidence and raising esteem.

This programme Leon was in was a collaboration between LFC Foundation, Wirral Council, NHS and Catch 22 and designed specifically for a cohort of care leavers aged between 18-25.

Leon was particularly proactive in ensuring the other participants were comfortable, making tea and coffee and helping set lunch. It was his suggestion that the excess untouched lunch was taken to the nearby homeless shelter, which he promptly did supported by the rest of the group. He is a care leaver with a very challenging past: "I managed to get myself back on track" he said and he is taking positive steps to improve his life.

His calm and measured approach and level of commitment to practical tasks helped to motivate the group and provided a nourishing atmosphere. He led the group in an initial gardening task then he went above and beyond turning his attention to a neglected outdoor space. He has continued to work on this and is currently making planters and a bench. Leon has proved capable of self-reflection and a dignified approach to his circumstances. He presents as a kind and caring human being who deserves a chance to improve his life. He was proactive and led by example, this created a great dynamic and everyone bonded as a result. Mental health amongst participants improved as we watched.

The programme’s brief was to help prepare participants for upcoming placements with the NHS, which could lead to employment in a variety of posts. The aim was to engage and inspire the participants, improve communication skills and social interaction, encourage critical thinking, but above all improve self- esteem and confidence. Emphasis was on communication in the workplace and enabled participants to improve their skillset and develop confidence in a safe supportive environment. They progressed to their NHS placements with improved levels of self-esteem and secure in their ambitions to continue their personal development.

Leon is now on placement and continuing with his outdoor space project. He remains committed to self -improvement and should have the opportunity now to gain employment.