In the internet age, where negativity and fear rules, we need to ask: Can a deeper understanding, prevent risky behaviours and harness positive change in our young people? Is the young adult playing with children a predator or someone who cannot interact with their peers due to learning needs? Is the person moving with a gang someone to fear or are they being manipulated for others gain? Is the girl who exhibits risky sexual behaviours to be judged as immoral, or someone who is desperately seeking love and affection? My talk examines whether a shift in social perceptions can impact a young person’s outcome. Lisa is a reintegration support officer at The Pilgrim School; a specialist provision for those with medical needs. Lisa grew up in Cornwall before attending the University of Lincoln to study psychology. Whilst there, she fell in love with a Lincolnshire lad and has made the county her much loved home for the last 17 years. Beginning her career in the Prison Service facilitating a drug rehabilitation programme, by the age of 25 Lisa was one of the youngest managers of the programme in the country. After becoming a mum, Lisa knew she wanted to focus on championing change in young people. She moved into secondary education and set up a pastoral support system in a grammar school in an area of deprivation. In doing so she massively challenged thoughts and attitudes that Grammar schools do not have many pastoral issues. Now working at The Pilgrim School, Lisa specialises in supporting and safeguarding more vulnerable groups of young people. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx