Jonathan, 21, only had the experience of volunteering at a care home with no idea of what he wanted to do. He also suffered from a speech impediment that affected him throughout his life.

When Jonathan started on the CTF Programme at TNG, his first placement was at a local charity shop. Unfortunately due to his lack of confidence and interest, Jonathan was not attending his placement regularly and his time keeping was poor. As a result he stopped the placement at the charity shop and after several meetings with his Placement Officer Jonathan expressed his interest in working at a park.

With the support Jonathan received from his Placement Officer, he was offered a work placement on a project at a local Park, this involved painting railings and general maintenance of the park. Jonathan thoroughly enjoyed the experience and as his confidence grew he requested for an extension at the park.

Once the project was completed at Abbey Park, he moved on directly onto another project. Jonathan enjoyed all his tasks that included clearing areas of a community centre, landscaping and general maintenance.

Jonathan's confidence has increased significantly that he has since started his driving lessons and his Placement Officer believes he has a bright future ahead of him.

"TNG has given me the confidence I needed to get into employment"

Jonathan attended the TNG offices in Leicester