RH is a student at a specialist school for young men aged 16–21 who face significant life challenges, including learning difficulties, mental health conditions, and disabilities. When RH first joined the Project Colt community, he required the support of two dedicated workers due to difficulties in communication, which often resulted in aggressive behaviour as he struggled to express his needs.

Despite these early challenges, RH enrolled in the Barista Training Course at Project Colt. With patience, understanding, and consistent guidance from staff, he began to develop practical skills, emotional regulation, and self-confidence. The structured yet nurturing environment provided RH with the tools to grow both personally and socially.

Since completing the course, RH now volunteers one day a week at Rusty’s Coffee Club, where he applies his barista skills in a real-world setting. Most notably, RH no longer requires the assistance of support workers to attend. He now travels and volunteers independently, a remarkable milestone that reflects his personal growth and the effectiveness of the tailored support he received.

RH’s transformation is a powerful example of how the right interventions, combined with opportunity and community support, can help young people with complex needs unlock their potential and thrive in meaningful roles.