Support for teens with learning difficulties to return to education in Coventry and Warwickshire

The Teenvine Plus Next Step Programme, by Grapevine, has recently received a grant of £60,000 from the Warwickshire Freemasons to help a group of 35 teens receive vital support.

Local authority statistics highlight the urgent need for SEND support.

In Coventry, nearly half of children not attending school have learning disabilities.

Due to inadequate support, it's believed some teenagers have become isolated at home and have limited opportunities for social interaction and educational growth.

The Teenvine Plus Next Steps programme aims to tackle this statistic.

Howard Smith, from Warwickshire Freemasons, shared his enthusiasm for the programme: "I’m very pleased we’ve been able to support Grapevine’s Teenvine Plus Next Steps programme.

"Young people only have one chance to get an education, and this wonderful project has the potential to transform the lives of some of the most vulnerable people in our community."

The 12-month programme offers local teens a chance to build a bright future through educational re-engagement and social inclusion.

There will be chance for participants to build upon practical skills based on their own interests which will create a typical teenage setting in and out of the classroom.

Naomi Madden, Director of Projects at Grapevine, shared her thoughts on the programme’s impact: "This project gives these young people a real chance to flourish.

"Seeing their strengths shine through and watching them build self-confidence is incredibly rewarding."

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