“Everyone else was in the same boat as me so I didn’t feel stupid” – Jacob’s Story
From a young age Jacob,18, has been a carer for his Mum at home. This often meant that Jacob’s home environment was incredibly busy and stressful. Combine this with school work and it is not surprising that it was extremely difficult for Jacob to be able to concentrate on his studies.
As a consequence, he left school with no qualifications and in his words “nothing going for me”.
Despite this, Jacob was determined to find a job, but, unsurprisingly, with no qualifications and no experience he was unable to secure any employment.
Jacob was signposted to Groundwork Greater Manchester’s Low Carbon Careers course through his housing provided Guinness Homes.

Although Jacob had not initially thought of a job in the construction sector, he had some experience in landscaping and fencing whilst helping out his family which he had enjoyed.
Once enrolled on the course, Jacob learnt about evolving topics within the construction sector, including sustainable construction practices and retrofitting. He was also able to visit operational construction sites and gain additional industry insights from Groundwork’s employment partners.

It was during one of the site-based visits that Jacob found an interest in excavation and pipe laying, and decided that this was the career for him.
Thanks to the Low Carbon Careers course, Jacob is closer to a career path than ever before. He has gained industry accredited qualifications in Health and Safety level 1 and his CITB CSCS Green Card. These qualifications strengthen his CV. Although Jacob is not currently employed, he continues to gain support from his Groundwork Employment Coach who is confident that it won’t be long before he secures employment.
Jacob commented,
The course has helped me with my confidence as everyone else on the course was in the same boat as me and so I didn’t feel stupid or awkward. Everyone was friendly including the staff and made the course really enjoyable