The six students didn’t have the experience or qualifications to work with social exclusion, but were chosen because of their insight and personal interest in issues such as homelessness, substance misuse and emotional well-being.

One of the students, Grant, is currently employed as a Support Worker within Caer Las. Another student, Anthony, has gained a full-time post in a homelessness scheme in Aberystwyth. Anthony is delighted with the outcome. “It couldn’t have worked out better for me”, he explained. “I have a son in Aberystwyth and it was a big decision to join the scheme in Swansea. Caer Las and I took a chance on each other, and it’s really paid off.”

Having completed their placements, the students are now awaiting the results of their Open University course. 20 year old student, Tom, is pleasantly surprised by his academic achievement. I really messed up my G.C.S.E’s and left school without qualifications. Since coming here, I’ve learned that I have dyslexia and I’ve overcome my loathing of studying. I actually averaged 65% in my university assignments and I’m looking forward to receiving my exam results. I’m currently applying for jobs working with young people.”

The three other students, Marcus, Lynn and Adrian are also in the process of applying for jobs linked to their specific areas of interest.

Caer Las Learning and Development Manager, Andrew Templeton, has mentored the students through the scheme. “This has been such a positive and rewarding experience for the students and for Caer Las. Its success is due to the unique package we were able to offer, the attitude and work ethic of the students and the help and support they received from our Project teams. We’d like to create similar opportunities in the future, if we can find the funding to do it. If anyone would like to fund us to continue this work, or is interested in learning from our experience, we’d love to hear from them.”