26th February 2025
Sanctuary Supported Living
Dame Kelly Holmes Trust and Sanctuary Supported Living have collaborated to provide young people with the tools they need to thrive in life.
A programme aimed at boosting confidence, resilience, and employability skills has successfully concluded at Sanctuary Supported Living's young people services in Canterbury.
Funded by Sanctuary’s Sustainable Communities Programme, which focuses on building connection and resilience for customers and their communities, the Dame Kelly Holmes Trust ‘Get on Track’ programme saw young people from East Kent Young People Supported Housing collaborate with two-time British Champion boxer, Hannah Beharry, to enhance their skills and wellbeing. Meanwhile, similar programmes were also delivered in Basildon and Brighton, where Commonwealth Gold medallist Claire Bennett provided mentorship.
Because the programme was co-designed with young people, it directly addressed the challenges they faced, such as low confidence, mental health struggles, and difficulties securing stable employment. Over the course of 20 sessions, Hannah Beharry’s mentorship proved impactful, with six young people consistently attending and engaging.
“I’ve learned how to deal with my anger better and think more positively.”
One participant, Brandon, shared how the programme helped him manage his mental health, anger issues, and confidence. He said: “I’ve learned how to deal with my anger better and think more positively.”
As part of the programme, the young people planned and implemented their own social action project, transforming an area at the Canterbury residence into a wellbeing garden. Seeing that many of their peers spent a lot of time in their rooms, they designed the space to encourage social interaction and foster a sense of community.
Reflecting on the progress made throughout the programme, Hannah Beharry said: “At the start, the young people didn’t have much confidence, were a bit erratic with each other, and quite disorganised. But it was amazing to see the changes in them. Over time, they started to bond, calmed down, and learned valuable skills like organisation, punctuality, and project planning.”
Dame Kelly Holmes Trust and Sanctuary Supported Living have been working together for the past four years. This year, the collaboration expanded to include bespoke digital content for residents across Sanctuary’s supported living services, offering support and advice on wellbeing, resilience, and physical activity.
To find out more about life with Sanctuary Supported Living, read about the support we offer for young people, read our latest news, or find a service near you.
