Blake’s Story: “I’m proud of myself for what I have learnt and achieved”

Meet Blake, a 9-year-old member at The Hive, Wirral Youth Zone. Blake used to live and go to school on the north coast of Wirral with his mum, Liz. They relocated to Birkenhead, where Blake wasn’t part of any groups, didn’t know anyone in school and was very much alone.

Support was received from different organisations and one of the main supports for Blake was Barnardo’s Children’s charity, they recognized he was a young carer for his mum and referred him to The Hive so he could meet new friends and get involved in some activities.

Blake’s story

“I came to The Hive because I moved to Birkenhead and didn’t know anyone in my new school or around the area. When I first came,  I was very shy and quiet. The Hive has helped with my behaviour and I have learnt how to take myself away from difficult situations. I have made a lot of new friends and I get my friends from my school to come too.

When I come to The Hive I enjoy playing basketball and playing with my friends. I really like going on the skateboards and scooters and I help other young people too. Jo and Claire are the two youth workers that have supported me. They have been able to help me when I have problems with my behaviour and anger, they help me to calm down and not kick off as much as I used to. Since coming to The Hive I have changed. I am more self-aware of how I look and what I wear, it has helped me to find my own sense of style. I got a Hiveability hero certificate for how well I have been doing. I feel more confident, happier and proud of myself for what I have learnt and achieved.”

Liz , Blake’s mum shares:

“Blake has become more independent and doesn’t look for reassurance from me as much, he has learnt to trust people more.”