)
)
)
)
)
Shaping Futures Professional Referral
How Professionals Can Refer
Do you know a young person who would benefit from Caudwell Children’s Shaping Futures programme?
Caudwell Children’s Shaping Futures programme empowers neurodivergent young people aged 16-25 to thrive in the next chapter of their life, whether they’re aiming to secure a job, gain work experience, or start volunteering. By referring a young person to Shaping Futures, professionals can connect them with engaging, hands-on sessions focused on employability and life skills. Our programme provides practical tools to build confidence and independence, helping each young person take meaningful steps toward a brighter future.
Together, we can support their journey toward a brighter, self-assured future.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be aged 16-25 and have an ST postcode.
- Neurodivergent (Diagnosed, non-diagnosed or self-identify).
- Learners can apply for a place themselves or can be referred by an educational professional.
- Sessions will be personalised to meet the students’ aspirations and goals.
Referral Process
- Step 1: Access the referral form and fill in all required sections with accurate and up-to-date information about the learner.
- Step 2: Submit the referral form.
- Step 3: Once your referral is received, our team will review the information and contact you to discuss the next steps. We may request additional details or clarification to ensure the learner receives tailored support.
To refer a student to the Shaping Futures programme, please complete the referral form below or contact our Employability team, call 0345 300 1348 or email employability@caudwellchildren.com
How Can I Support Learners?
- Provide Guidance: Explain the programme’s benefits and help gather necessary documentation.
- Be a Contact: Support the learner and their family throughout the process.
- Stay Connected: Check in regularly and share insights to tailor support.
- Encourage Engagement: Motivate the learner to stay committed.
- Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge achievements and encourage applying new skills.
- Offer Ongoing Support: Provide guidance and connect them to further resources.
A Salon Experience; FG Apprenticeships
“Collaborating with Caudwell Children’s Shaping Futures Programme has been an exceptional experience.
Our apprentices worked alongside Landau learners to run a salon for a day, providing invaluable hands-on experience and fostering an inclusive environment. This initiative not only enhanced technical skills but also promoted empathy and respect for individual differences.
The seamless coordination, led by Nicola Stanway, ensured a rewarding day for all participants.
I wholeheartedly recommend professionals to engage in such collaborative efforts, as they offer real-world contexts for learning and contribute to a more inclusive and supportive industry.”
Emma Casewell, Educator and Relationship Manager at FG Apprenticeships
Neurodiversity in the Workplace, The Milehouse
“The students showed incredible development in such a short time, going from nervous beginners to delivering a professional lunch service. It’s been a phenomenal experience for both the students and our team at The Milehouse.”
James, Operations Manager at The Grill Pub Co
“I think Shaping Futures is a great idea, the programme encourages young people by supporting them into work. It’s a really proactive approach and needs to be supported by many businesses.”
Rob Hewitt from Michelin Tyres
“Hearing the stories of how the young people got here today is amazing and I think more businesses should be getting involved with programmes like Shaping Futures. ”
Sonya Farrall from BabaBaboon
Shaping Futures, BOD Cafe
“The highlight of the day for us was seeing the growth and development of the students over the course of just a few hours. Whether they were in the kitchen or working front of house, not only could you see a clear development in their workplace skills, but we also saw their confidence soar. They more than proved their ability in the various roles, and it was a genuine joy for us to see just how proud they were of what they were achieving.
The growth in confidence as the day went on was remarkable, and this building of confidence was key in allowing the students to practice and refine their skills, from taking orders to preparing the food and drinks, to interacting with customers. By the end, the students were completing tasks without any prompts or support. Our team who was supporting the day felt fairly redundant by the end of the day – it was fantastic!”
David Glenwright, Titanic Brewery
Need support with your application?
If you need support with your application or have any questions, please contact our Employability Team, call 0345 300 1348 or email employability@caudwellchildren.com Alternatively, please see our FAQs below.
Shaping Futures FAQs
Any educational professional, healthcare provider, or support worker who is working with neurodivergent young people aged 16-25 (diagnosed or undiagnosed) with an ST postcode can make a referral.
You will need the learner’s contact details, confirmation that they meet the eligibility criteria, and any relevant background information that will help us support them.
Simply fill out the referral form on our website, or contact our Employability Team for assistance at employability@caudwellchildren.com
Learners will receive a combination of group sessions and one-to-one support tailored to their needs in areas such as employability, life skills, and preparing for independence.
Yes, you can refer multiple learners. Just fill out a separate referral form for each learner.
Our team will contact you within 5 working days to confirm whether the learner has been accepted and to discuss the next steps.
No, the programme is free of charge for eligible learners.
We provide ongoing support throughout the programme. If a learner needs extra help, they will have access to 1-to-1 guidance.
You can help by staying in contact with the learner, offering encouragement, and checking in with them during and after their sessions. You can also liaise with our team if any additional support is needed.
Our Partners and Education Providers
Volunteer
