When Connor first came into Longton Job Centre in January 2025, he was unsure about what came next. He’d spent years feeling on the outside of things. School had been tough, especially with the bullying he faced around his autism and weight, and it had chipped away at his confidence. By the time he joined the YES Project, he felt he’d run out of direction.
What followed over the next year was a steady, genuine shift, the kind that happens when a young person is given time, encouragement and the chance to try things they never thought they could do.
Step by step, Connor rebuilt his confidence
Working closely with his work coach, Connor started taking on small opportunities and gradually built up to bigger challenges. With every session he completed, he grew a little more sure of himself.
Across the year, he completed training in employability, CV writing, digital and life skills, Stoke by Numbers, Level 3 First Aid and an introduction to sports coaching. He also achieved advanced safeguarding through the FA.
For someone who once couldn’t picture getting through a Level 3 course, these achievements meant more than certificates, they were proof he could move forward.
A turning point in sport
Connor’s work experience through the Future Pledge placed him with Port Vale FC, and it was exactly where he needed to be. His calm, steady way of working stood out straight away. Coaches described him as committed, reliable and someone who brought a positive atmosphere to sessions.
For Connor, this experience opened up a path he had never considered seriously before: supporting other young people, especially those who are autistic, through coaching and sport.
A new chapter
Connor is now working full-time with GXO and continuing his FA Sports Coaching qualification. He has routine, purpose and growing confidence in where he’s heading. His long-term aim is to become a coach who can help neurodiverse young people feel understood and capable, something he once doubted he would ever feel confident enough to do.
His journey hasn’t been quick or easy, but it has been real. And it shows exactly what can happen when a young person is given the right support at the right time.
About the YES Project
YES supports 16 to 24 year-olds in Stoke-on-Trent who are not in education, employment or training. The programme is delivered by YMCA North Staffordshire, TILG, Stoke City Community Trust, Landau and Youth Offending Services.
Across the programme this year:
• 500 young people enrolled
• 176 received support with mental health
• 215 completed life skills training
• 196 completed CV writing
• 222 took part in job search
• 275 completed employability training
• 66 sustained employment at 1 month
• 31 sustained employment at 6 months
TILG’s part in Connor’s journey
As a delivery partner, TILG works with young people to build confidence, develop practical skills and recognise their strengths. Our sessions give young people space to try things in a supportive environment and see new possibilities for themselves.
Connor’s story is just one example of what happens when a young person is encouraged, supported and given time to grow.
Partner With Us
If you’re looking for an education partner who can genuinely engage young people, build their confidence and help them take the next step in work, training or further education, we’d be happy to talk.
TILG works with schools, local authorities and community programmes to provide practical, meaningful support that makes a difference to young people’s lives.
To explore how we can work together
