When Small Steps Are A Big Deal
It’s brilliant when participants on our personal development programmes find work, or decide to return to education. But for many, this can be too big a step—especially within just 12 weeks.
Our team based programmes are often made up of people at vastly different stages of life, facing a range of often complex physical and mental barriers. While some simply need to rebuild lost confidence or motivation, others can be working through the anxiety of just leaving the house and being in a room with new people.
Luke Brown, a recent graduate of the Leigh King’s Trust Team Programme, is a great example of why measuring progress isn’t simply a case one-size-fits-all. What might seem like small steps to many people were monumental for Luke—and have transformed his life.
Overcoming barriers
Luke has cerebral palsy, which affects the use of his left hand. Refusing to let it define him, he worked hard to pass his GCSEs and his driving test—even getting his own car.
However, he has struggled with his confidence as a result of a stammer, which becomes a challenge in unfamiliar environments with new people. Luke desperately wanted to change this, recognising it as an obstacle holding him back from achieving his potential and starting a career.
The Turning Point
At first, the hurdle felt huge. Luke’s parents had to encourage him out of the house just to attend the first day. But as the course progressed, his comfort and confidence grew. Soon, Luke was throwing himself into every challenge—including completing a 3-day residential trip packed with outdoor physical and team-building exercises.
By the end of the programme, Luke stood up at the final presentation in front of a full room to share his journey. His parents, watching from the audience, were filled with pride at his incredible transformation.
The secret to the success of The King’s Trust programme is that they give you confidence without you even realising it, by believing in you when you don’t believe in yourself. I now feel much more optimistic about the future and have started applying for jobs again, as well as joining the gym.
Massive Progress
Luke said: “At the start of the programme I was very anxious and feeling quite down about the way life was going. I found it difficult to try new experiences and apply for jobs because I had little self-esteem or confidence.”
“In week three we went on a residential trip to Coniston. I was apprehensive about being away from home but in the end it was the best part of the course. I very much enjoyed my work placement at Etherstone Day Centre which provides daily care for people with dementia and I hope to volunteer there until I find permanent work.”
“I never thought I would be able to stand up and speak in front of an invited audience with the Mayor of Wigan in attendance. I now feel much more optimistic about the future and have started applying for jobs again, as well as joining the gym.”
“My advice to future participants of the programme would be to remain focused on your goals, keep going when you’re faced with challenges and take all the opportunities they give you.“
Next Steps
Equipped with newfound confidence, Luke is about to join the gym. He is also looking to gain more workplace experience with ambitions to become a teaching assistant.
Luke’s story reminds us that success isn’t defined by a final destination. Sometimes, the biggest victory is simply finding the confidence to take that first step and recognising every bit of progress you make along the way.
