Learning on the job – Amy’s story

Amy was referred to the Restart Scheme after taking time out of her career to raise her family, with a focus around finding work that was flexible around her family and childcare. Employment Adviser, Matthew was able to support Amy, and provide clarification on the financial impact that going back to work would have for her using the Better Off Calculator.

“When I began my journey with the Restart Scheme, my Employment Adviser, Matthew made me feel at ease, as I was anxious about starting work again after three years out of work whilst raising my children.”

Our team of skilled Employment Advisers can support with finding sustainable work that fits around childcare and family responsibilities. Our ‘Better Off Calculator’ provides insight on the financial impact that working full or part-time hours will have.

“I explained to Matthew, that I wanted to find work at a school as it would work well around my own children and childcare, and it’s also something I’ve always wanted to do. I was very lucky to have been placed with Matthew, as he was previously a schoolteacher, so he was able to give me useful hints and tips, with the best places to apply for jobs.

“When I found a job I wanted to apply for, Matthew was able to bring my appointment forward, so that he could help me to complete the application and prepare me with an updated CV, interview skills and tips. I found this so useful, as I was a bit clueless with where to start on my application. Before I heard back from this application, I was invited to interview for another role at a pre-school, so I went along remembering everything Matthew taught me in our practice interviews.”

Restart Scheme can support with mock interviews, travel costs and interview clothes, to ensure participants feel ready, prepared and confident for their interviews, this is to ensure that their transition back into work does not have a negative financial impact.

Amy was offered the job by the end of her interview, with a condition of completing a Level 3 qualification whilst working and completing a DBS check.

“I called Matthew as soon as I had the good news, he was very happy for me, and even confirmed that Restart Scheme could fund my course.

“Without the help of Matthew and the funding of my course I never would have got the perfect job so quick. I am extremely grateful for all the help that I have had from the team at Restart Scheme and especially from Matthew!”