What is Connexions?

Connexions is a service for young people aged 13-19. It provides information and advice on learning, careers, health, relationships, money and lots more.

Here, some young people who've used Connexions Oxfordshire speak out about how it's helped them.  

I needed help through the rough times of getting a job

I used connexions at the Witney branch and had some brilliant help from Howard. I finished school last year but was confused on where to go from there, I didn’t want to go to college as I preferred to learn whilst in a job. Howard helped me through the rough times of getting a job and advised me to take evening courses in college which I took part in. Months went past but I didn’t give up, I regularly went to Howard to keep him and I updated, then I had an interview with a company for the role of trainee office administration work and I love it! The colleagues are really helpful and I have learnt a lot! It was really interesting how time passed by from being at school preparing for exams to finishing school and being in an office based environment. I have found and learnt a lot about working and I really enjoy it! I would like to say thanks to Howard for the brilliant help and willingness to help me succeed. With his help I am now a full time office employee and learning to become a sales advisor. - Boshra, 17

I needed someone to talk to

My friend told me about her Connexions PA so I went to see him. I was sleeping on her floor at the time and I was pregnant. I needed help because my manager at work wanted me to leave and I needed that job to support my baby.My PA got me an appointment with Face2Face so that I could get some counselling about the pregnancy. He told me that I would have to get a letter from my parents so that I could get accommodation as homeless. They had to say that they wouldn't house me and the baby, but I hadn't told them about the pregnancy. In the end, I decided to have an abortion. I'm back home with my parents and they are pressurising me to get a job. My boyfriend is still upset about the termination. I'm glad I have my PA to talk to. - KF, Oxford

I needed someone to keep checking I was OK

I first used Connexions when I was homeless. My personal adviser helped me to get my benefits and housing. They were always phoning me to check I was OK and now I am on a hairdressing training course and living in my own flat. I didn't have anyone else to help me but Connexions. Make contact with every possible type of organisation, homelessness service, doctors surgeries. If you're on your own, it's easy to think I guess I'll go get p****d because no one gives a sh*t. - One who knows