Goals achieved - Josh’s story

When Josh joined the Restart Scheme, he had been unemployed for almost a year. Like many people who experience a prolonged period out of work, Josh faced significant challenges. This included a loss of confidence, which was affecting his ability to progress in his job search.

With personalised support, practical training and ongoing encouragement, the Restart Scheme helps people build confidence, enhance their employability and secure opportunities that align with their career ambitions.

Determined to return to work, Josh fully engaged with his Employment Adviser, Charlotte, attending regular one-to-one appointments focused on identifying skills gaps, strengthening applications and refining interview techniques. Through tailored support and encouragement, he rebuilt his confidence and developed the skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive job market.

Josh also completed in a range of in-house courses and accessed our wellbeing support services. These opportunities not only enhanced his employability skills but also played an important role in improving his overall wellbeing and self-belief.

With a clear goal of securing a career in administration, Josh remained focused throughout his journey. Charlotte arranged mock interviews for practice and provided vouchers for smart interview clothing so that he not only looked the part but felt it too.

After facing a few setbacks in his job search, Josh finally received the news he had been waiting for. Following an interview for an administrator role within the finance department at his local council, he was offered a permanent position, achieving the career outcome he had worked so hard towards.

Starting a new job can bring new challenges, which is why the Restart Scheme continues to support participants for up to six months in work, providing practical assistance with training, travel and workplace essentials to help them thrive in their new role.

Josh shared: “The Restart Scheme helped me to develop my employability skills and build the confidence I needed to secure a role in my chosen career sector. The support and guidance I received played a key role in my journey back to employment.”

The Restart Scheme continues to support Josh with in-work support, and Charlotte is on hand to help his transition back into paid employment. Charlotte tells us: “Josh is really enjoying his new job, he has reached his goals, and I am over the moon for him and how far he has come to get here.”