Leighton joined Yep! with Newquay Orchard in February 2024 having no previous employment but had done some horticulture volunteering and had L1 Maths and English.

He is autistic and due to his cognitive disability he did not feel ready to look for work. He required 1:1 support and started attending with a personal assistant (PA) who transported him to sessions and supported him to engage in the group.

His short-term goals were to learn to use tools safely and to build the confidence and skills to become a gardener. He wanted to gain employability skills to prepare him for work in the future.

Leighton really wanted to learn to drive and develop his independence skills so he could get around on his own.

His ultimate long-term goal is to live independently and find employment.

He was supported to complete an EL3 Learning Employability and Progression course over 16 weeks, which he thoroughly enjoyed. This course and achievement encouraged him to enrol on a L1 course which involves full days – a great progression!

He took part in Wellbeing Sessions from April which he reported helped him to understand healthy relationships, to make friendships in the group, and improve his self-esteem. He also took part in cooking challenges which have improved his independence and life skills, he really enjoyed learning about healthy eating and nutrition.

He transitioned from having a PA to being supported by his mum, then attended independently travelling by train on his own – a huge step forward!

He passed his driving theory test and starting driving lessons.

He continues to engage with the team at the Orchard and has signed up for some courses to develop his skills further including a lawn mower course and scything course.

He is getting work experience mowing people’s lawns and feels really confident and happy about this.

Newquay Orchard will be looking into a Supported Internship for Leighton when he finishes his current studies. He loves being part of the local community and has engaged in horticulture volunteering at a local charity enabling him to branch out and develop further.

The icing on the cake – Leighton has now passed his driving test! A real personal milestone.

‘Leighton told me that the Yep! project has improved his mental health and happiness and that he loves coming to Newquay Orchard and all the activities we offer’ Ruth, Newquay Orchard