In Worcester, a growing number of young people are unable to access mainstream education due to anxiety, behavioural challenges, special educational needs, or complex personal circumstances. These individuals often feel disconnected from their communities and lack opportunities to express themselves in safe, supportive environments.
Recognising this gap, N-Able’s therapeutic learning provision, for students aged 11-25 years, offers a nurturing space where connection, creativity, and personal growth are prioritised.
Working with Worcester Carnival Charitable Trust, N-Able sought to engage young people in a meaningful, fun, and inclusive activity that would support their mental wellbeing and foster a sense of belonging. The initiative centred around preparing a vibrant, street-art-inspired float for the Worcester City Carnival. The goal was to bring young people together to create something “silly and fun” that would be seen and celebrated by the wider public. This creative challenge offered a rare opportunity for participants to work collaboratively, express themselves artistically, and contribute to a high-profile community event.
Worcestershire County Council’s Public Health Wellbeing Grant was instrumental in enabling this project. It provided the resources needed to engage the local visual artist to guide and inspire the young people, supply materials and tools for building the float and creating artwork and facilitate therapeutic sessions that integrated creativity with emotional support. The funding transformed the idea into a reality, giving young people a shared purpose and a tangible goal to work towards. It also allowed N-Able to tailor the experience to the diverse needs of its learners, including those with autism, ADHD, and other challenges.
Despite initial concerns that anxiety might prevent participation in the carnival itself, a small group of students overcame their fears and proudly walked in the parade. This was a powerful moment of achievement and visibility for young people who often feel unseen.
The project also fostered ongoing relationships—between students, staff, artists, and the wider community. It created a buzz around the centre, built confidence, and gave participants a sense of pride in their work.
The success of the carnival float project highlights the value of creative, therapeutic, and community-based interventions for young people outside mainstream education. It demonstrates how targeted funding can unlock potential, build resilience, and strengthen wellbeing.
To hear more about the success of the project: https://youtu.be/Q-nRQW_ilUE?si=RvVdmjYtZXftKwef
To find out more about Public Health wellbeing grants for youth organisations, please visit our webpage: Community Wellbeing Grants | Worcestershire County Council