Next chapter - Chantelle’s story

When Chantelle joined the Restart Scheme, she believed her chances of returning to work were slim. Lacking confidence and struggling with low self-esteem, she began to doubt she would get the opportunity. Twelve months later, after attending just her second interview in over 20 years, she secured a role as a Customer Care Assistant.

The Restart Scheme provides tailored support for individuals, including those with little to no experience, to build confidence and develop key employability skills. Participants receive guidance from dedicated advisers to help them move into sustainable work.

Chantelle met with her Employment Adviser, Stuart, who took time to understand her and explore her job goals and available support. Through volunteering at a local charity shop, she built confidence, met new people and gained customer-facing experience. Stuart helped her maintain a realistic balance, focusing on developing employability skills while working towards sustainable paid employment.

“When I first started 12 months ago, I was uncertain about my future, and I can’t believe how far I have come with the support of the Restart Scheme.” said Chantelle.

During her time on the Restart Scheme, Chantelle made full use of the support available through Reed Wellbeing, taking part in regular one-to-one sessions and completing virtual courses to help with her anxiety and sleep management, learning strategies for life and how to overcome them.

Reed Wellbeing offers one-to-one tailored support to individual physical and mental wellbeing. By building confidence, supporting healthier routines and addressing personal challenges, it helps participants prepare for work in a way that supports their overall wellbeing.

Stuart told us: “Chantelle thrived from our in-house Skills Academy courses. The courses that she participated in strengthened her employability skills and boosted her confidence, helping her move closer to returning to work.

“Together we worked with Recruitment Manager Chariss, and Chantelle was screened for the hospitality and catering candidate pool and matched with a flexible, understanding employer who offered the right environment for her next step”, said Stuart. “We prepared Chantelle with mock interviews and practice questions to ensure she was ready for her interview. As a result, she went on to impress the hiring manager and was offered the job!”

Looking back on her journey with the Restart Scheme, Chantelle shared:

“If you had told me 12 months ago that this was possible, I wouldn’t have believed it. I’m excited to get started in my new role, meeting new people and doing something for myself. I can’t thank Stuart, and the team enough for their support, and believing in me from the start.”