Kane’s story

Kane’s story is testament to the work Dame Kelly Holmes Trust endeavours to do with young people across the UK – with the help of one of our delivery partners, Swale Leisure Trust, Kane’s story shows that with some help, belief and some hard work thrown in, circumstances and problems can be overcome.

Kane was one of several young people who took part in Dame Kelly Holmes Trust Get on Track employability programme alongside athlete mentors Claire Bennett and Tre Whyte. The programme is designed to build confidence, resilience and self-esteem, as well as focusing on becoming physically and mentally healthier – and that’s exactly what it did for Kane.

Before programme, he was battling with his mental health and felt isolated. Kane said that he found the sessions ‘daunting’ but was ‘so glad’ he did them. They gave him more confidence as well as helping him to make new friends. ‘Getting out there’ is what Kane believes is one of the hardest challenges facing people like him, aged between 16-25 today. He went on to explain that in his experience and of those around him, mental health challenges are one of the most common to face.

Kane mentioned that previously to the Get on Track programme, he had difficulty socialising, getting out of the house and making friends. Kane mentioned that struggling to put himself out there also meant that he has had difficulties finding work. He highlighted how ‘scary’ job interviews can be to those who may be more introverted and suggested that this has stopped him from applying for jobs in the past. The difficulty of looking for jobs is just one area the program has helped him.

One aspect of the programme helps young people with interview techniques, taking part in practice workshops, with the mentors, which helped them to feel more confident in talking about themselves positively in a more formal setting.

Reflecting on her time with Kane, Claire said: "Before attending the programme Kane was isolated, low in confidence and not connecting with others. He struggled to talk in front of the group and found it hard to share his thoughts and feelings with others. Kane has shown huge growth.”

“He has set himself wellbeing goals around physical activity and nutrition, and he has pushed himself outside of his comfort zone to travel and connect with others. He also stepped up to lead the group on many activities and he is now comfortable speaking in front of the group. The progress he has shown is phenomenal. Well done, Kane, we couldn't be more proud of him and we know this is just the start. Onwards and upwards to his confident and happy new chapter!" Claire continued.

Kane’s time with the Claire was a big highlight, he said he has been taught a lot by the athletes, learning that it is ‘all about mindset’. He has picked out some of his favourite quotes from the inspiring athletes that Kane has said have stuck with him. Claire’s was when she told him to ‘break the ice’ and Tre’s was ‘what’s the worst that can happen?’.

“I felt like an outcast in life but since coming here, I have found many others like me to help me try and make that change.”

Both of these quotes from the athlete mentors encourage Kane to ‘break barriers’ that he has put up himself and help to act as a constant reminder to think more positively. Kane said that the highlight from the programme for him was ‘all of it!’ But something that he didn’t expect to enjoy as much as he did was the exercise sessions. He particularly enjoyed the spin class, as well as the guided PT session that his fellow group member, Tyrone, lead. Both helped him to feel better and more positive about himself, whilst giving him confidence to do things that he isn’t sure of.