Project Title

Focus Forward

Funders

UKSPF

Josh's Journey -

Josh’s story is a powerful example of how targeted, UKSPF-funded employment support in Torbay helps young people overcome personal barriers and achieve professional success.

Background/Reason for Joining Eat That Frog

Joshua joined Eat That Frog facing significant challenges that were holding him back from moving forward in life. His main barriers were linked to his mental health and a lack of clarity about which career path to pursue.

Although he had some ideas about the kinds of roles that interested him, he was unsure how to take those first crucial steps towards employment.

Without clear direction or the confidence to progress, Joshua felt stuck and unable to visualise a future career.

Support given by Eat That Frog

Once Joshua’s barriers were identified, he was referred to Steve, Eat That Frog’s dedicated Health and Wellbeing Coach, to begin focused support for his mental health. During their initial consultation, Steve and Joshua worked together to create a personalised wellbeing and fitness plan specifically tailored to help Joshua manage his mental health in a sustainable way.

Building on this positive momentum, Joshua was then referred onto our NCS (National Careers Service) through Louise, where he received one-to-one support to update his CV and learned how to make it stand out in a competitive job market. Louise also introduced Joshua to the Employability Hub at Eat That Frog, where he had the chance to complete a mock interview with Mary. This experience allowed Joshua to develop key interview techniques and practise answering questions in a safe and supportive environment, helping him build his self-belief and reduce anxiety around interviews.

The bespoke curriculum that Joshua engaged in was carefully designed to boost his employability skills, improve his wellbeing, and provide the practical tools he needed to move closer to his employment goals.

Outcome / Qualifications gained

Thanks to the targeted support and the encouragement provided by Eat That Frog, Joshua’s confidence significantly increased. He began to feel motivated, prepared, and ready to step into the world of work. Shortly after completing his bespoke curriculum, Joshua independently applied for a position with Torbay Council as a Town Centre Officer.

Joshua’s improved skills and boosted confidence shone through during his interview – he was offered the job on the very same day. Joshua has now successfully started his new role, making a positive contribution to his local community and taking ownership of his future.

Joshua’s journey is a shining example of how Eat That Frog’s supportive environment and bespoke curriculum can empower learners to overcome personal barriers and achieve meaningful life changes. His success demonstrates the real impact of the work we do in helping people not only move forward but thrive.