A year ago, Keys Group, children’s home Cantera, demonstrated exactly what it means to put young people first. A referral came through for a young man with significant risks and complex needs.
The young man was already known to police and had previously been supported by Keys Group through an Activity and Intervention service. After this, he had been placed in another residential provision outside of Keys Group. Unfortunately, his experiences with grooming and exploitation had led him to become involved in serious incidents, including kidnapping, threats, and the use of weapons, resulting in his placement serving notice.
When Cantera, based on the South Coast, identified a vacancy, the referral was carefully considered. The placement was out of county, which brought additional considerations around risk and accountability. During the impact risk assessment process, Katie Proudman, Keys Group’s specialist advisor on exploitation, was involved to ensure that all risks were fully understood and managed. Sara and the Cantera team were clear about the challenges, but also confident that, with the right structure, relationships, and support, the young man could make real progress.
From the moment he arrived at Cantera, the focus was on stability, safety, and consistency. His basic needs were reliably met; safe accommodation, regular meals, and predictable routines, creating a foundation for growth. After being out of education for two years, Cantera supported him to re engage with learning by enrolling him on Alternative Learning for All (ALFA), Keys Group’s specialised programme for young people who have been out of education or face additional barriers. Through ALFA, he accessed a tailored curriculum that built both academic skills and confidence, with the Cantera team providing structured encouragement and one to one support. Step by step, he regained motivation, overcame anxieties, and began taking pride in his achievements, setting him on the path to completing GCSEs. This combination of stability, personalised care, and focused education played a pivotal role in helping him rediscover purpose and self belief.
Due to an ongoing police investigation, the Cantera team was asked to provide input to the court regarding his progress. Prior to sentencing, the team contributed to a detailed pre court report highlighting his engagement, achievements, and commitment. The report made a strong impression on the judge, who imposed a 12-month referral order rather than a custodial sentence. The order required 24 hours per week of education or volunteering, which was fully supported by Cantera in partnership with ALFA and Youth Justice.
Over the next year, the young man thrived. He successfully completed all of his GCSEs and is now attending college full time. He has clear aspirations for the future and hopes to pursue an apprenticeship in bricklaying.
During his time at Cantera, risk factors were managed and reduced and there were zero missing incidents, no safeguarding or exploitation concerns, and no further police involvement. He met all conditions of his referral order, which was removed four months early, a testament to his commitment and the consistent support provided by the team at Cantera.
The personal transformation has been equally remarkable. With stability, care, and trusting relationships, he has come out of his shell, becoming more playful, relaxed, and age appropriate. He has developed friendships locally and a genuine sense of belonging. His relationship with his aunt has been rekindled and strengthened, providing an important source of connection and support. As his confidence has grown, he has expressed a desire to move closer to her as part of his journey toward independence.
One year on, he remains settled at Cantera and has grown into a thoughtful, motivated, and caring young man. His journey reflects not only his resilience, but also the passion, expertise, and commitment embedded across Keys Group.
Cantera was recently inspected and graded Outstanding with Ofsted, and this story demonstrates exactly why. It shows that when services within Keys Group act with courage, skill, and genuine care, even the most challenging referrals can result in life changing outcomes.
