What We Do

Since 2003, Pathways to Independence has worked alongside young people facing exclusion, disadvantage, and systemic barriers. Our work has always been guided by the principle that lived experience should shape practice, services, and systems.

Today, our focus is lighter, more community-based, and rooted in the values that shaped our legacy. Through PTI CIC, we develop projects that:

✦ Mentoring & Outreach

Creating opportunities for young people and young adults to connect with positive role models, explore their strengths, and find belonging. Outreach projects may focus on those who feel outside of their community, helping to reduce isolation and build pathways toward inclusion.

✦ Knowledge Sharing & Systemic Influence

Drawing on our history of working with local authorities, universities, and community partners, we share insights from lived experience to influence policy and practice. This includes developing and sharing tools like the UASC Outcome Star – Planning Star™, and contributing to systemic conversations about equity and inclusion.

✦ Creative & Participatory Approaches

Using creative methods, including storytelling where appropriate, we support young people to reflect, share perspectives, and contribute to wider understanding. Storytelling can take many forms — from spoken word to mother tongue expression, to digital stories — and is always shaped by the community involved.

✦ Community Partnerships

Collaborating with universities, local authorities, and grassroots organisations, we collaborate to build inclusive models of best practice that can be adapted and replicated across different contexts.

At the heart of it all is a simple belief: that lived experience is powerful, and when amplified, it can drive real change