Oscar’s Incredible Journey with Genuine Futures
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At just 13 years old, Oscar’s education pathway had already taken a difficult turn. He was at risk of becoming one of many young people who slip through the cracks of the education system. But thanks to the Restoring Young Futures alternative education programme, delivered by Genuine Futures, Oscar has been able to find his footing again—discovering new opportunities, new skills, and a renewed sense of hope.
A Youth-Led Enterprise Hub at The Scrappers
Genuine Futures is proud to be based at The Scrappers, where together we’ve built a youth-led enterprise hub. This isn’t just a training space—it’s a working environment where young people play an active role in shaping projects, learning enterprise skills, and contributing to the day-to-day running of real businesses.
From car care and vehicle maintenance to breaking and recycling motor vehicles, the hub gives young people a chance to gain valuable hands-on experience in industries they wouldn’t normally access. It’s about turning lived experience into leadership and giving young people the tools to build their own futures.
One of Oscar’s highlights so far was getting behind the controls of the legendary Grab Gloria, guided by Terry Walker, founder of The Scrappers.
“You could see the joy and energy in Oscar when he got behind Grab Gloria,” said Terry Walker. “It’s about more than just machinery—it’s about giving young people experiences that show them what’s possible and remind them they’ve got potential.”
Restoring Hope, Trust, Purpose, and Belonging
At Genuine Futures, we understand the risks that come when young people don’t feel they belong. Without a sense of connection and purpose, many can drift towards the wrong crowd or harmful pathways. That’s why our programmes focus on restoring hope, building trust, creating purpose, and giving a sense of belonging.
For Oscar, this has meant being welcomed into a supportive community, surrounded by mentors and peers who believe in him. That foundation of belonging has helped him rebuild his confidence and start looking ahead with optimism.
A Parent’s Perspective
Oscar’s progress hasn’t just been noticed by mentors and staff—it’s been deeply felt at home. His mum, Tracy, shared:
*“Watching Oscar grow in confidence, start listening, engaging, and realising that people genuinely care has been incredible. That smile at the car wash was unforgettable, and today at The Scrappers, seeing him take control on the 360 grabber was another standout moment. He was focused, buzzing with excitement, and genuinely proud of himself – and rightly so!
Moments like that don’t just happen. They come from trust, encouragement, and someone giving him a real chance. He’s used to doors being shut, but now he’s learning to open them and walk through with his head held high.”*
Back in Education
Since joining Restoring Young Futures, Oscar has been offered a brand-new school placement. His return to education is a major step forward, proving that with the right support, young people can re-engage with learning and take back control of their futures.
Teamwork and New Beginnings
Alongside his education, Oscar is working with other young people on We Shine Any Car, an upcoming social enterprise pre-launching soon. This project is being developed within the youth-led hub, giving young people the chance to take ownership, learn teamwork, and contribute to something that will make a visible difference in the community.
Oscar himself says the programme has made a real difference:
“Being part of Genuine Futures has helped me with my mental health. It’s given me something positive to focus on and people around me who believe in me.”
A Partnership That Changes Lives
Oscar’s progress—and the opportunities available to every young person we support—are possible thanks to the generosity of The Scrappers. Terry Walker and his team have given Genuine Futures a home and enterprise base, supporting us to establish a hub where young people lead, learn, and launch their own ideas.
Through this partnership, we’re showing young people that they are capable, valued, and have a future worth building.
Why This Matters
Oscar’s story is just one example of why Genuine Futures exists—to make sure young people who have been excluded, overlooked, or left behind are given real opportunities to succeed. By combining practical experiences, education support, and community-led enterprise, we’re restoring hope, trust, purpose, and belonging.
And for Oscar, the future is already looking brighter.
Learn More:
Our Restoring Young Futures programme supports excluded, overlooked, or left behind young people with mentoring, real-world opportunities, and pathways back into education.
Find out more here: Restoring Young Futures Alternative Provision Education https://genuinefutures.co.uk/