Taking Positive Steps Towards Independence: Chloe’s Story

24 Feb 2026

At Cae Deri, the team supports people in growing in confidence, learning new skills, and working towards the life they want. Chloe’s journey into volunteering is a great example of how the right support and encouragement can help someone take positive steps forward.

Chloe has faced some challenges in the past, including struggles with substance misuse. Since moving to Cae Deri in June 2023 she has worked incredibly hard and has remained substance-free. Over time, Chloe has begun thinking more about her future and what she would like to achieve. She hopes that one day she will have her own home, a paid job, and be able to live as independently as possible. She is also working towards having more freedom and choice in her life.

The team at Cae Deri supported Chloe by helping her explore opportunities that matched her interests. Chloe has always loved clothes and fashion, so volunteering in a charity shop felt like the perfect fit. Finding something that suited her interests helped Chloe feel comfortable, motivated, and excited to try something new.

Chloe has now started volunteering at a local charity shop and attends twice a week. From the moment she started, she threw herself into the role with real enthusiasm. Chloe helps tidy the shop floor, clean, organise clothes, and tag items ready for sale. These tasks are helping her learn important skills while also giving her the chance to give something back to her community. Taking on this volunteering role is an important step in helping Chloe move closer to her long-term goals.

Chloe enjoys volunteering so much that she often wishes she could stay longer when it is time to leave. She looks forward to going each week and speaks positively about her experiences. Having this routine has made a big difference to Chloe’s wellbeing and happiness, giving her a real sense of purpose and achievement. Her confidence has grown, and she is becoming more independent every day.

Although Chloe has had lots of support along the way, the biggest credit goes to her. She has shown real determination, courage, and a willingness to try new things. Everyone at Cae Deri is incredibly proud of her progress and excited to see what she achieves next.

Chloe’s story shows how, with the right support and opportunities, people can build confidence, gain independence, and work towards a happy and fulfilling future.