Empowering Growth through Creativity

Background:

The young person, a 13-year-old girl with ADHD, has been engaged with EPlus service for the past three years. She has had consistent support from her outreach worker Sarune Sabaliauskaite. The referral needs have changed informally many times throughout the years, however, her current support focused on addressing her emotional needs, providing a safe space for self-regulation, and offering practical assistance in achieving her goals. The importance of having one-to-one sessions for ongoing cases like hers was evident, as it allowed for personalised guidance and structured emotional support.

February Goals:

Efforts were made to support her emotional well-being while also fostering her entrepreneurial interests. The young person enrolled in ICE course, where she aimed to fulfil her entrepreneur idea of candle making.  A key initiative involved assisting her with a school-based business idea: making and selling candles.

Practical and Emotional Support:

Provided a safe space for discussions about emotions and self-regulation.

Encouraged decision-making and problem-solving skills in a structured and supportive environment.

Ensured continuity and consistency through regular one-to-one sessions, which helped her stay engaged and motivated.

Concrete Support - Candle-Making Project:

The activity was conducted over three days with a budget of 50 euros. Two sessions were combined into one, with approximately 8 hours of direct work making candles and 3 hours spent on planning and preparation.

• EPlus staff booked the necessary space and covered all expenses related to supplies.
• The young person took the lead in all decision-making processes, including:

*Planning and designing labels using relevant applications.

*Selecting scents and molds.

*Choosing packaging materials.

*Decorating the candles.

*Managing the sales process.

• Sarune ensured health and safety measures were in place, assisting with tasks such as pouring wax and cleaning up after sessions.
• The worker also assisted with basic tasks, including printing labels and other supportive functions.
• The project was structured to encourage her independence while ensuring she had guidance when needed.

Outcome:

• The young person successfully sold all her candles, earning a total of 60 euros.
• She gained valuable skills in candle-making, business planning, and financial literacy, including breaking down costs.

Her teacher recognised her potential and provided her with feedback believing she has the capability for a future business venture.

• The experience positively impacted her confidence, self-esteem, and ability to regulate emotions through creative expression and structured goal-setting.
• Her foster carer was happy with the support provided, as it relieved the pressure of having to facilitate an activity they were unfamiliar with.
• Following this success, Sarune was again requested by the young person and foster carer to make more candles for the school. Teachers were impressed with the young person’s work and dedication.

The young person was proud of herself and fulfilled her goal, which was the main purpose of the session.

Conclusion:

This case study highlights the effectiveness of providing both emotional and practical support to young people. By engaging her in a meaningful project, EPlus services empowered her to develop key skills, build resilience, and envision a future in entrepreneurship. The consistency of one-to-one sessions played a crucial role in keeping her engaged and providing her with a structured, supportive environment.

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