Step Up case study - Disability (DARE) – Finding my voice: building confidence, skills and balance through Step Up DARE
Focus on people who have a disability, are aged 16 years or over and are unemployed or economically inactive. The stories highlight the impact of support provided to enhance opportunities to gain qualifications and progress into work or stay in work.
The participant joined the step up DARE programme to improve transferable skills and build confidence, particularly as English was not their first language.
Initially, she lacked confidence in communication and participation. She required consistent guidance and reassurance to engage fully with the course while also managing part-time employment.
Regular check-ins with the key worker were essential in helping them balance responsibilities. The main challenge was maintaining confidence while managing both work and study commitments. With structured support, the participant developed effective time management skills and grew more confident in her abilities. The participant demonstrated excellent engagement, consistently completing work on time and actively participating in all aspects of the programme.
The participant said:
“I feel genuinely positive about how far I have come and am more confident in myself.”
The class tutor has commented:
“The participant showed strong commitment and resilience, successfully balancing competing priorities while making excellent progress.”
The participant is on track to achieve her qualification and plans to continue developing her skills, with the confidence to pursue further opportunities in education or employment.