New Redcar project helping young people navigate adulthood

Pathways, based in Redcar, is aimed at supporting 16- to 25-year-olds in Redcar who are living with autism or experiencing mental health challenges, with the programme designed to help them develop the skills needed to navigate adulthood.

The project is the latest initiative from Jenny Crawford, chief executive of Wellbeing Plus, who has drawn on her personal experiences to create programmes that support those facing health and wellbeing issues.

Ms Crawford said: “Many of the young people we aim to support have expressed that traditional youth provision can feel intimidating or unrelatable to them.

“Pathways works in smaller group sessions with a greater focus on individual needs.

“It’s all about equipping these young people so they can develop independence and the feedback so far has been very positive.

“First you have to gain trust and coming together in a non-pressurised, social setting is a good way of doing that.

“Through creative projects and skill-building workshops we can then help young people develop self-confidence, make decisions for themselves and plan and carry out activities.”

The scheme recently received a £200 grant from Broadacres’ Community Development Fund to purchase equipment for its Redcar base.

The Pathways programme offers a variety of hands-on activities, including gardening for the infirm, and making craft and decorative items that can be sold to raise funds.

These activities are designed to foster independence, encourage personal growth, and build confidence in a supportive environment.

Ms Crawford first launched Wellbeing Plus in 2018 after overcoming her own personal and health challenges, and has since helped hundreds of adults manage long-term health issues.

Her approach centres on creating safe, supportive spaces where individuals feel comfortable sharing their experiences and connecting with others through creative outlets.

The Broadacres Community Development Fund supports local organisations, groups, and projects in areas where Broadacres has homes.

Funding decisions are made by Broadacres residents.

Applications for the 2025/26 financial year are now closed, but organisations are encouraged to check the Broadacres website for future funding opportunities.

Those interested can visit www.wellbeing-plus.co.uk or www.broadacres.org.uk for more information.