Lucy was 16 years old when she joined the Ladder Step Up Latrobe Valley program. She was couch surfing, disengaged from school, had no employment or education opportunities and ultimately no future direction.

Lucy found out about Ladder from a friend who had recently graduated from the Step Up Latrobe Valley program.

Following an initial meeting with the Ladder team, Lucy signed up to participate straight away. Lucy’s capacity to challenge herself and operate independently grew exponentially over the six-week program period, recently stating that she felt like she could do anything.

She participated in a rewarding and positive work placement with a hair and beauty salon, helping to build her confidence, learn new skills and open her eyes to the ever-growing list of her talents.  

As part of the transitional support post program, Lucy has identified and the set goal to go back to school and finish her year 12. She is currently working with her school to finalise her enrollment and is focused on getting herself back on track.

Lucy has become a wonderful peer leader, constantly challenging herself to get the most out of any opportunity and has engaged in every activity on offer.  

With support and encouragement, Lucy was able to represent her fellow program participants at a local event where she spoke about the difference the program has made to her self-belief and future aspirations.