ESTEEM supports over 200 young adults across Sussex each year, aged 14–26, who are facing an average of three to four interconnected challenges. These may include experiences such as mental health challenges, disabilities, self-harm, or displacement. They work with many young people who are navigating complex circumstances, such as those who are vulnerably housed or homeless, out of education, employment, or training (NEET), neurodivergent, part of the LGBTQ+ community, or care leavers and those currently in care.

ESTEEM launched three programmes after receiving funding for a new Wellbeing Youth Projects Worker.

The 'Girls Allowed' emotional resilience programme was created for girls aged 14-18, all of whom described themselves as "socially anxious”.

They also held a ‘Drama Free Space’ (DFS) - a group running weekly for girls aged 14-18 to provide a relaxed, supportive and safe social space. Sessions included beach walks, reflective exercises, creative projects and sensory activities. They also encouraged informal discussions around relationships, self-care, school pressures and social media.

A partnership project with Grow Wild – ‘Truleigh Wild’ was able to connect 37 young adults with nature through farm visits and music making using the natural environment, concluding with an incredible celebration event.

J's Journey:

Back before I joined Esteem I was sitting in my room, looking at the same four walls everyday. Even the task of getting out of bed and being somewhat productive was a struggle. I knew I had to make a change, so I did.

My friend told me about ESTEEM and I decided to sign up myself.

Initially on my first drop in I felt very anxious and quite self‑conscious, however that feeling soon faded when the wonderful staff at Esteem greeted me. After meeting the young adults, I began to gain a substantial amount of self confidence in myself. I am glad I took that big step forward, which is always the hardest part in anything. I've learnt to never give up, never live in fear, never live in the past.

Everyone needs a space that feels like home, a warm cosy environment, where they feel comfortable. Home is where love resides, memories are created, friends always belong, and laughter never ends. The Old School House is unique, and home to hundreds of young adults every year including myself.

To find out more about ESTEEM's Wellbeing project head to their website found here.

ESTEEM's projects were funded under our Reaching Potential funding priority. Through this, we support local organisations that build people’s skills, confidence and life opportunities.

You can help us now by donating to the Reaching Potential Fund. Donations to our pooled fund enable impactful grant making in this area. You can make donations of any size and it will make a real difference to people’s lives. Donate here.