COMPASS partner, Cornwall Neighbourhoods for Change (CN4C) worked in partnership with others to achieve an amazing success for Jonti, aged 18. He was struggling with home living arrangements, education, the authorities and experiencing behavioural challenges. But with the support he received he has gained an apprenticeship with Cormac.

Jonti did not have any qualifications and a brief experience of work with a family business. He was sofa surfing before starting the project and found engaging in education difficult due to prior experiences and his anxiety. Jonti was receiving on going support from social care and had some contact with the police. The goal when joining COMPASS was to remain in education and complete an accredited qualification along with Maths and English (through Functional Skills), maintain a permanent placement living with a grandparent and identify employment opportunities and apply for apprenticeships.

The activities Jonti undertook to help him achieve his goals were working with Cormac at two of their gardens in Redruth and Falmouth, helping with maintenance and developing horticultural skills. Jonti visited Granite Planet Indoor Climbing Centre working with a group of COMPASS participants and individually at an evening club. He also visited Goonown Growers, Market Garden, St Agnes, planting trees and hedges to provide shelter for crops being grown for the community.

Jonti has achieved his original goal which was to maintain a place at 16+ education provision and to be offered employment. Since leaving the project he has maintained his education provision placement sitting Functional Skills Maths and English exams and completing a Level 1 Award in Employment, Training and Personal Development. He applied, was shortlisted and attended an interview for an apprenticeship with Cormac. Jonti was successful with his interview and was offered an apprenticeship!

Jonti said has found COMPASS very supportive and helpful with improving his confidence and understanding how to apply for employment.