Securing my future – Jimmy’s story

When Jimmy joined the Restart Scheme – delivered by supply chain Triage, he was unsure about what support was available to him as a single parent, as childcare was one of his barriers in returning to work.

During his initial appointment, he met with his Employment Advisor, Steph, who got to know Jimmy and his situation, so that she could identify what support was needed most. Jimmy’s young daughter had recently started nursery part time, and he wanted to explore self-employment opportunities that would work around childcare hours.

Jimmy told Steph about his previous experience in self-employment, and how he ran his own business in decorating, landscaping and handyman jobs for many years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Initially, Jimmy came out of work as a temporary measure to care for his partner at the time. However, this lasted longer than expected when lockdown was introduced, and he needed support with getting back on his feet”, said Steph.

Steph explored options and opportunities available to Jimmy whilst assisting him with the setup of his own business. Together they completed a Better Off Calculation to give Jimmy an idea of income he could generate with full and part time hours, whilst working around childcare.

Steph told us: “Despite Jimmy’s previous experience of self-employment, he still lacked confidence due to his career gap, especially when speaking to potential customers. He need not have doubted himself though, as he secured work very quickly following business planning, sourcing tools, and obtaining insurance.

“Following his first secured job as a new business, Jimmy’s confidence has grown considerably, and he is loving being back at work, negotiating with customers and taking on new jobs that he can fit around his home life with his daughter.”

The Restart Scheme can provide financial support to participants on their transition back into work. Steph was able to provide funding for business cards and Jimmy’s DBS checks.

Jimmy shared: “It’s been great to be supported back into work by the Restart Scheme. My Self-employment Adviser, Steph, is an asset to anyone wanting to become self-employed. I can honestly say that this is the best thing I have done for years, and I am so happy with where I am in my life, because of starting up my own business.

“I am looking forward to the future and ongoing success for my business. I am sure my daughter will be very proud of her dad as she gets older.”