Steps to success – Katrina’s story

When Katrina was referred to the Restart Scheme, she told us how she had previously dealt with low confidence, self-esteem and lack of motivation. After a career gap of 20 years whilst raising her family, Katrina felt she didn’t know where to begin with applying for work in the current job market.

The Restart Scheme supports people with limited work experience to build confidence, develop essential skills, and take meaningful steps towards employment. Through tailored guidance and practical support, participants are empowered to overcome barriers and successfully enter the world of work.

During her initial appointment, Katrina met with her Employment Adviser, Charlotte who took time in getting to know her background and circumstances. Katrina explained that she had limited IT skills, and this was a barrier to her searching and applying for jobs online.

Charlotte discussed the support available, and as a result Katrina enrolled onto Reed Financial Inclusion, where she received tailored support around money management. Alongside this Katrina completed a course in IT delivered in-house over six months, where she has significantly improved her digital capability and confidence.

Charlotte said: “The positive changes to Katrina’s confidence were evident, it was lovely to see her become more open to learning new skills and attending various workshops with other likeminded participants. Katrina has really focused on her job searching, mock interview preparation, and structured goal-settings, and I am proud of how far she has come.”

As a result of working together with Charlotte, Katrina has made significant progress by securing two job interviews within the space of one week, where she was offered a full-time role with a local cleaning company. Katrina was provided with vouchers for work clothing and a bus pass to support her commute to work until receipt of her first wages.

The Restart Scheme supports many participants like Katrina on their financial transition from benefits into paid employment, helping to ensure that starting work has a positive and sustainable impact on their finances.

Reflecting on her time with the Restart Scheme, Katrina said: “I think Charlotte is amazing, she is a great Employment Adviser, I have received support with using my mobile phone and computers, and my confidence has really improved.

“I feel my mindset has changed and Charlotte has been a great support in helping me change my views on work, helping me to set goals to progress. I have now started work as a cleaner, and I am loving it. Being part of a team and feeling needed has been important to me, now that my children are grown up. I feel really happy with my new life.”