First paid job in 15 years – Carol’s story

Carol was referred to the Restart Scheme by her Work Coach at Jobcentre Plus as she had been out of work for 15 years and needed support with her job search to find paid work. As she had volunteered for several years, this meant she had the work experience, but Carol was unsure on the application process and how to begin her job search.

“Joining the Restart Scheme was a very rewarding experience. Everyone there is friendly and treats you with respect. My Employment Adviser, Emma, has been wonderful, she is so caring, warm and friendly, and has helped me a lot with my confidence and nervousness especially.

“I attended a job fair through the Restart Scheme and found a vacancy as an activity co-ordinator and extra care nurse. Emma was so happy for me, she called me on the day of my interview to support and prepare me, and then congratulated me when I got the job! Emma has since supported with travel expenses to get to my induction and starting my new job. I can’t thank her enough!”

Carol completed two of the Restart Scheme’s in house courses, focusing on self-confidence and her employability skills in our Skills Academy.

“Derek the skills trainer has been lovely, he has lots of courses you can complete, and he makes them fun and enjoyable.”

Employment Adviser, Emma, shared with us: “Carol has been unemployed for 15 years but has been a volunteering at care homes for several years now, so to find a job in care was so fitting and she couldn’t be better suited for her new role. Carol was worried about her health condition, however her new employers have taken all of this into consideration.

“She is so happy, and I am very proud of how far she has come in such a short time. Carol just needed to be believed in, and that she could do it and she did!”