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Home Case Studies EMMA’S STORY
The following names have been changed to give privacy to our young people.
Meet Emma, a bright and creative 14-year-old girl who, like many young people during Covid, was struggling with the challenges of loneliness. After coming out of lockdown, Emma found herself isolated and struggling to connect with others. Then she found ZEBs, YPC’s youth centre in Truro.
Emma’s point of view:
I always struggled with making friends and then COVID happened. I was stuck inside, feeling alone. Loneliness started to creep in, and going out became this big, scary thing. I only felt safe at home, but I knew I needed to do something.
Then, I was recommended ZEBs. At first, the idea of leaving my house was scary. I didn’t want people to think I was weird. But I risked it. Going to ZEBs was the best choice I’ve ever made. The workers there listened to me and my worries. They never rushed me and let me do things in my own time. After a few visits I started to make some good friends and I don’t feel isolated anymore.
A worker’s point of view:
Emma was hesitant about joining ZEBs at first and would stand near the door for the first few sessions. We knew it was important not to rush her as we understood this was big step. Emma slowly started to relax by attending more sessions and gradually began to form connections with her peers. Sharing experiences and having conversations helped her feel less alone.
As Emma’s confidence grew, so did her willingness to engage in social situations outside of ZEBs sessions. The connections formed in the youth centre has helped Emma feel more confident out in the wider world. She no longer feels alone.
From drop-in youth groups to one-on-one mental health sessions, we offer a huge range of support – all over Cornwall.