ARC (Accessing Resources in the Community) is a service delivered by YSS (Your Support Service) to support 16-24 year olds who are in, or at risk of being involved in, the criminal justice system across West Mercia.

Recently we were delighted to receive an email from a service user who received support from ARC last year. Referred to the service due to feelings of isolation and anxiety, which often left her unable to leave her home, the service user was supported back into education by her keyworkers, whilst gaining both confidence and independence.

She told us: “I wanted to let you know that I am still in county training and am due to start a work placement soon. I just wanted to thank you because I really believe I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for your help. I was just at Sainsburys today… I went to the ATM and went into the shop on my own, and for the first time it felt normal to me.

“A lot of things feel normal to me now that wouldn’t have this time last year and it really made me think about a lot… about how your help really did mean a lot to me. I have a long way to go but I am actually getting somewhere and I just wanted to thank you.”

Services like this are vital in supporting young people and adults to break down barriers, make better choices and have better lives. To find out more about ARC or what you can do to support YSS to reach more people who need our help, please go to yss.org.uk/arc.