FREDDIE: Elevation+ Participant
Freddie: Elevation+
Participant
*To protect identities, images are not specific to the stories and names may be changed.
Freddie’s Journey to The Social Switch Project:
Freddie was referred to Elevation+ in August 2025 after experiencing a difficult period marked by instability and a lack of reliable support. Having been excluded from school, he had not been in education, training, or employment since he was 16. Alongside a diagnosis of schizophrenia and undiagnosed ADHD, Freddie faced significant barriers to accessing consistent support.
Despite these challenges, he remained determined to find a pathway into work that would provide structure and purpose to his life.
Finding Freddie Support:
Freddie received consistent, personalised support through weekly one-to-one sessions with his youth mentor, alongside regular community visits tailored to his needs. His mentor worked closely with him to update his CV and cover letter, register on job search platforms like Indeed, and explore job opportunities in hospitality and retail that aligned with his interests and readiness.
To further enhance his skills and confidence, Freddie was referred to the Inspiring Connections programme, where he benefited from mentoring and additional training. Elevation+ guided Freddie through the entire application process, providing encouragement and practical advice that helped him overcome earlier setbacks and stay motivated in his job search.
Outcomes:
Freddie successfully secured a part-time role as an online assistant at Sainsbury’s, where he completed induction training that significantly boosted his confidence and understanding of his responsibilities. This new position has given Freddie a valuable sense of purpose, routine, and accomplishment.
In addition to his employment, Freddie actively participated in six sessions of the Inspiring Connections programme, where he developed and delivered a presentation on a business idea, earning positive feedback from both mentors and peers. His ongoing weekly mentoring sessions with a senior client executive at Microsoft have further supported his personal and professional growth.
Find Out More:
Learn more about Elevation+ here