Growing confidence - Brandon’s story

Brandon previously worked in retail but soon realised it wasn’t the right fit for him, so he left in search of a career better suited to his strengths and goals. After spending a year unsuccessfully job hunting on his own, he joined the Restart Scheme to receive the support he needed to move forward.

Our team supports participants to recognise their transferable skills and understand how these strengths apply across different roles and sectors. This helps them explore the job market with confidence and present their value to employers.

Brandon met with his Employment Adviser, Sophia, who helped identify the barriers he was facing and worked closely with him to explore the career path he wanted to pursue. Brandon explained the areas where he felt he needed the most support, and shared that, as someone with autism, he sometimes felt this could hold him back without the right guidance.

Sophia shared: “Brandon faced challenges with confidence and employability skills, and he was seeking support to find a long‑term, sustainable career he could grow in. During his time on the Restart Scheme, he attended over 20 employability courses, where he learned how to tailor and create a new CV.

“Our weekly Jobs Club helped Brandon to build on his people skills and self-confidence, and he attended one of our careers events where he presented himself professionally and impressed employers.”

Restart Scheme careers events connect participants directly with partner employers, giving them access to real job opportunities and valuable industry insight. These events also support a smooth transition into work by helping with onboarding and boosting confidence.

One employer offered Brandon an interview, which led to a full-time, permanent position as a Care Assistant in a Nursing Home. Brandon has now completed his first full week at work in over a year and is eager to continue developing his skills.

Brandon told us: “This programme is crucial for people who are struggling to find work, With the support of the Restart Scheme, they will find work in no time.”