Not just another course – Adrian’s story

Hear in his own words how Adrian found work and managed to turn his life around with help and guidance along the way from the Restart Scheme.

“I was referred to the Restart Scheme by my Jobcentre Plus Work Coach and I thought it was just another course - but I was wrong! My Employment Adviser at the Restart Scheme supported me in ways that I never knew I needed. I was then able to see things from a different angle and change my approach to job searching.

“From the start, I found it totally different to any other courses I had attended before. During my time with the Restart Scheme, I attended two Careers Fairs and a health check event which I really enjoyed. I was able to meet employers face to face and get an idea of what jobs were available and what employers were looking for.

“Graham gave me the confidence I have today. He helped me to re-work my CV, apply for the most suitable jobs and provided me with the personal support I needed to find my new full-time job in retail. I was given vouchers for work clothes and all my travel costs were reimbursed, which really helped me out.

“Following the International Diabetes Day Health Check event [which was held at the Restart Scheme office and invited participants to undergo a health check], I found out I was quite ill, and that my sugar levels and cholesterol were sky high. I visited my GP straight after and was diagnosed with diabetes, which I wouldn’t have known if it weren’t for the health check provided by the Restart Scheme.

“From then on, my life completely changed. I was successful in finding work and I managed to follow a strict diet, losing two stone! With a routine in place with working I kept my sugar and cholesterol levels back down to normal levels again. Thanks to my Employment Adviser, Graham for pointing me in the right direction overall.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Restart Scheme for helping so much throughout my journey, and helping me to find suitable work, especially Graham.”