Interactions aims to meet the gap in support for young people (aged 13-19) who have been excluded from inner-city schools by engaging them in positive and creative activities. This two year programme will result in improved health & wellbeing and greater ability to achieve potential for young people.

Hackney is an inner London borough that has high levels of poverty and inequality with 48% of children classed as being in poverty after housing costs compared to the London average of 37%. Immediate Theatre has been working with young people in the borough who have been excluded (or are at risk of being excluded) from mainstream education for over 20 years.

ALMT funding will specifically cover the salary costs of the Positive Pathways Officer. This post has a particular focus on supporting young black men, this demographic make-up approximately 50% of the participants.

Each year the project will engage with 30 young people through 6 week programmes in Pupil Referral Units and School Exclusion projects with an additional 15 young people referred directly onto the weekly evening sessional work. The project will work with at least 45 young people a year with at least 60% showing positive progression in 3 of the following areas:

– Improved sense of self- esteem & wellbeing
– Improved relationships with peers & adults
– Improved attainment through achieving AQA
– Improved job readiness
– Young People are more confident and able to deal with their emotions and feel more able to engage with education & progression routes
– Young People are aware of their skills and attributes and able to present themselves positively to potential employers.