Utilising my language skills – Fabio’s story

“My name is Fabio, I am 48 and I arrived in the UK in 2016. I worked as a self-employed Uber driver for a few years. I really enjoyed this role, but due to engine failure, my car needed replacing. This was the start of my financial struggles, as I couldn’t afford a new car.

“I was then referred to the Restart Scheme by my Jobcentre Work Coach. My first appointment was with Employment Adviser, Junior, who immediately made me feel at ease and took the time to get to know me and my situation. He discussed with me the possibility of staying self-employed or changing career paths to something new.

“As I’d recently suffered with two hernias, Junior was very diligent and proactive in trying to find me a new career that would suit me and my health needs. One day he called me and told me about a customer service course with Mid-Kent College that I could complete from home. I wasn’t sure at first as English isn’t my first language, as I speak four different languages: Brazilian, Spanish, Catalonian, and English.

“Junior explained how being multilingual was a strength of mine when looking for work, and that I would do well in this course having that privilege. I decided to go for it, and enrolled onto the course, enjoying the whole experience. I was so happy to study again, even at my age!

“I completed the course and was offered a job at the end of it in Teleperformance. Once I had my interview and they were aware of my multilingual skills, they offered me another role working in passport services.

“During my last appointment with Junior, he expressed how proud he was of me and the progress that I’ve made whilst on the Restart Scheme. He ensured I had everything that I needed prior to starting my job. I mentioned that I needed a new chair as my current one was awful - I had found it in a bin. He immediately ordered me a new chair with back support, and a backbone ergonomic protector to provide comfort for my hernia issues.

“I was so shocked at the support and dedication shown to me. The Restart Scheme made it possible for a man my age to acquire a new set of certified skills to change careers in such a fast and enjoyable way.

“I am now back on my feet and have a stable life with many more possibilities for the future than I had before.”