Action for Children CashBack Positive Changes is a behavioural change, wellbeing, and inclusion service for young people aged 14-24 who are not engaged in school, currently offending, or perceived to be at risk of being involved in the justice system. The project supports young people with a range of complex needs/challenges, including being disengaged or excluded from education, behavioural issues, risk-taking behaviour, family adversity, negative peer influences and a lack of positive role models.
The project delivers 26 weeks of needs-led support (on average). This includes:
- Holistic one-to-one support throughout their journey
Participants work with a dedicated keyworker to co-produce and review a Personalised Support Plan of agreed goals, actions, and outcomes.
- Group work
- Progression and after-care
CM’s story
CM is a pseudonym
Programme: CashBack Positive Changes
CM was referred to Action for Children by his school after growing concerns about his wellbeing and behaviour. He had been involved in significant antisocial activity, accumulating charges and disengaging from school – factors that led to a sharp decline in his confidence and self-esteem. Initially, CM showed interest in joining the Positive Changes group, but ongoing tensions in his local area made him feel unsafe participating with peers from neighbouring communities. To find an alternative, Action for Children staff met CM at school to discuss tailored support options. Together, it was agreed to start one-to-one sessions focused on achieving qualifications in Maths and English while building trust and routine.
Challenges and Early Engagement
CM’s living situation was highly unstable, moving between his mum’s, dad’s, auntie’s, and family friends, which disrupted his sense of security and made consistency difficult. The sessions began at the end of 2024, initially every two weeks to establish trust, something both the school and CM’s mum highlighted as a challenge for him.
At first, CM struggled to concentrate, managing only a few questions at a time and needing frequent breaks. To create a positive environment, the project incorporated activities like Xbox and pool, things CM didn’t have access to at home which helped lift his mood and build rapport.
Progress and Turning Points
Despite the challenges, CM’s engagement improved. Sessions increased to weekly, and he began texting ahead to confirm attendance: a clear sign of trust and commitment. His confidence grew, and he achieved his first formal qualifications: National 3 Maths and English. His mum shared her excitement:
“Thanks, he’s buzzing to get his maths.”
The school also recognised the breakthrough, saying:
“Thanks for all your work with CM, this is the first he has engaged with anyone for a long time.”
As CM’s focus improved, the project introduced worksheets and discussions to challenge negative thought patterns. He embraced this and soon began speaking positively about his future – a significant shift.
CM has since settled into a routine, reduced drinking, and successfully applied for a part-time job setting up bouncy castles and obstacle courses for children’s parties. This role boosted his independence, and he now helps his mum with bills and groceries, something he’s proud of.
Despite new responsibilities, CM remains committed to his sessions, showing resilience and determination. Both CM and his mum have expressed deep appreciation for the support provided.
CM’s story is a powerful example of how CashBack-funded projects can transform lives, helping young people overcome instability, build confidence, and create brighter futures
Want to learn more?
- Find out more about Action for Children CashBack for Communities funded projects
- Read their 2024-25 annual report to find out more about the project’s impact
- For more examples of how CashBack for Communities projects support children and young people towards positive destinations, see our 24-25 Impact report
