Support from the Employment and Skills Pod
I had several challenges that were making it difficult for me to return to work after 4 years of being unemployed. As a lone parent, I had limited access to childcare, a limited employment history, gaps in education, and some mental health issues.
I worked with the Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) Officer to ensure I was accessing the appropriate mental health support. The IAG supported me in addressing my low self-esteem, which had been further impacted by being very isolated. With some support, I started attending local parent toddler groups.
The IAG referred me to some training opportunities to update my ICT and maths skills. I completed work preparation activities, including CV writing, application writing, covering letters, and interview preparation. We did several activities on transferable skills and my personal strengths, and I began to feel confident enough to start working and submitted a few applications with the support of an IAG.
I started on the Peer Workers programme with Clean Slate, completed my level 2 training with them, and am now working 4 hours a week. I feel this is a great foundation for me to gain more skills and start achieving my long-term goals. I have done things I never thought I could, and I’m so proud of myself. Thank you so much.