🌱 Pathways Programme: Building Independence​

Independence is a journey, and every young person’s path looks different.
Our Pathways Programme is designed to help young people aged 13–25 develop the everyday life skills, confidence, and resilience they need to move towards adulthood in a way that feels right for them.

This provision is based in Gloucester and runs as part of our short breaks service, with sessions built into the individual days young people already attend.

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🎯 What’s It All About?

Our aim is simple: to support young people in learning, practising, and celebrating the life skills that will help them grow in independence.

We cover ten key themes, including:

• Managing Money

• Health and Wellbeing

• Understanding Disabilities (including your own)

• Managing a Home or Bedroom

• Employment, Education & Training

• Family & Relationships

• Looking After Myself

• Personal Growth & Problem Solving

• Life Skills in the Real World

• Emergency Planning

Each young person works at their own pace, focusing on the modules that are most relevant to them. Every achievement is celebrated along the way with certificates for completed sections and a final Pathways certificate at the end. Families and professionals are invited to join us for these celebrations.

 

⚙️ How it Works

• The programme is built into existing short break sessions at Chapter One

• Each young person has an individualised programme tailored to their needs

• Modules are picked and chosen based on what will benefit them most

• Learning is hands-on and practical, often taking place in real-world settings like shops, buses, or kitchens

• Support is delivered through a mix of group activities and 1:1 sessions

• Progress is steady, personal, and celebrated every step of the way

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👥 Working as a Team

We know independence cannot be built in isolation. That’s why we work closely with parents, carers, social workers, and other professionals to ensure the programme meets each young person’s needs.

The Pathways Programme is allocated to set young people and completed as part of their short break sessions. It runs alongside our wider support, adding value without replacing existing provision.

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📚 Learning That Matters

Schools focus on curriculum and academic outcomes, which are important. Pathways focuses on life itself, the everyday skills we all need to thrive. This includes things like cooking, shopping, using public transport, building friendships, or knowing what to do in an emergency.

We recognise that independence looks different for everyone. For one young person it might be paying for an item in a shop, for another it could be managing their own bedroom, or learning how to explain what helps them in new situations. Every step is progress, and every step matters.

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💚 Why it matters

The Pathways Programme bridges the gap for young people who are ready to take their next step. It gives them the tools, practice, and encouragement to build independence in a safe and supportive environment.

This is not about rushing to adulthood. It is about preparing for it in a way that feels achievable, positive, and empowering for each young person, giving them confidence for the future and celebrating success at every stage.

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