From Disengaged to Determined: A Mum’s View on How Belief Transformed Her Son’s Future
Posted on:
In our latest video, we hear from someone whose voice is rarely spotlighted in stories of youth transformation — a parent. Gill, the proud mum of 18-year-old Declan, shares her heartfelt experience of watching her son go from completely disengaged to a confident young man running his own business.
This is more than a success story — it’s a reminder of the power of belief, and the ripple effect of genuine support. It’s a mother’s perspective on what happens when young people are seen, heard, and offered real opportunity. It’s the story of how Genuine Futures and Boss Your Future helped fuel one young man’s transformation from NEET to entrepreneur.
The Spark That Started Something
Like many young people, Declan once sat in the shadows of the system — not in education, employment, or training (NEET). Lacking direction and motivation, he was unsure of his future. But everything changed when he joined a Boss Your Future group session run by Genuine Futures.
There, in a space that was open, welcoming, and judgement-free, he shared a simple but powerful idea: he wanted to start his own business — something hands-on, practical, and real.
That moment became the spark. With consistent support, mentorship from Sam and Mike, and encouragement to believe in himself, that one idea turned into a business: Mottershead’s Metals and Movers.
“I’m happy with my new business venture. I’m excited to see where this is going. I’m motivated now more than ever — waking up early, raring to go. Thank you to Genuine Futures, Sam and Mike, and Boss Your Future who helped me see it, believe it — and I’ve achieved it.”
— Declan
Building More Than a Business
Declan didn’t just start a business — he started showing up for his own life. The change was more than professional; it was deeply personal. From a young man who once had no reason to engage, he became someone with a plan, a purpose, and a work ethic that now drives him to rise early, organise his workload, and take pride in every job.
Scrap metal might not be the first industry that comes to mind when people think of entrepreneurship, but for Declan, it’s gold. His business taps into a practical trade that allows him to earn money, learn on the job, and build a reputation. And he’s not doing it alone.
In a few weeks, Declan will tour EMR (European Metal Recycling) in Liverpool — one of the UK’s leading metal recycling companies. There, he’ll learn how to maximise value from the materials he collects, scale his operations, and think strategically. This opportunity has been made possible thanks to Barry Flanagan, a supporter of both Declan and the Genuine Futures mission.
A Family Changed Too
Declan’s progress hasn’t just changed his own life — it’s had a profound impact on his family, especially his mum.
“To see Dec now — motivated, confident, smiling — is amazing,” says Gill.
“From not engaging at all to running his own business — I’m beyond proud. Genuine Futures gave him belief, and now he’s building something real.”
Gill’s pride is evident in every word — and her admiration for the journey her son has taken shines through. But her response hasn’t just been emotional — it’s been active. Inspired by what she’s witnessed, Gill is now stepping forward to support other young people just like Declan.
On Saturday 14th June, Gill is hosting a fundraising event at ASDA Farnworth in Bolton, raising funds and awareness to ensure more young people can access life-changing opportunities through Genuine Futures and Boss Your Future.
Boss Your Future: Launching in Bolton
Declan’s story is just one example of what happens when a young person is empowered to lead their own future. And that’s exactly what Boss Your Futureaims to do — and will be doing more of with its launch in Bolton this summer.
The programme is designed for 15–24-year-olds who are NEET. It combines:
Personal development and self-belief workshops
Hands-on learning and practical skills training
Enterprise and employment pathways
1:1 mentoring from real business leaders
Ongoing support to make changes sustainable
This is more than a youth programme — it’s a bridge. A way to reconnect young people to purpose, potential, and people who care.
A Blueprint for Change
Declan’s journey is proof that young people don’t need saving — they need supporting. The problem isn’t that they lack ambition; it’s that no one’s asked them what they care about. They don’t lack talent — they lack opportunity.
That’s why programmes like Genuine Futures and Boss Your Future are crucial. They meet young people where they are, see them for who they can be, and walk alongside them as they grow.
The truth is, change is possible. But it takes time, trust, and belief.
How You Can Get Involved
Declan’s success is the result of a community that chose to invest in him — and that community is growing. Whether you’re a parent, business owner, educator, or simply someone who cares, there’s a role for you to play:
Join Gill at ASDA Farnworth on June 14th for her fundraiser
Share this blog post and video to spread awareness- Partner with us — offer work experience, mentorship, or resources
Refer a young person aged 15–24 who could benefit- Talk to us about how your organisation can help build brighter futures
Final Thoughts: From a Mum Who Knows
In Gill’s words, this is about more than just business:
“It’s not just that he’s earning. It’s that he’s happy. He has belief in himself. And now, I do too.”
From disengaged to determined — Declan’s journey is the kind we wish every young person had the chance to take. Through belief, support, and opportunity, he’s not just building a business. He’s building a future.
And thanks to his mum, his mentors, and the movement behind him — that future is wide open.