Supporting Jennifer back into work with our Restart programme

Jennifer came to us on Restart on 25th November 2024. She was very anxious and nervous about going into employment as she had been out of work since 1986 due to caring for family members. Jennifer was interested in upskilling but was worried about learning after a period of absence as well as finding work due to rural living. We helped Jennifer to look and understand how to transfer her skills rather than her qualifications to show that she is more than capable of tailoring her skills to the employment that she wants.

Initially, Jennifer had looked at re-training in Administration, so she enrolled on to Digital college to learn Business Administration and Microsoft Word and Excel. Both of these courses helped build her confidence and feel motivated to work. In January, Jennifer had seen a part time role near her home for a housekeeper and was really nervous about applying. However, she felt that due to her weekly face to face meeting with her Advisor, she had the confidence to apply and she got an interview. She then came into her appointment the next week with the biggest smile on her face to say that she got the job!

She really appreciated Restart for helping her to understand that she does have the skills for employment and that she can learn to believe in herself. Jennifer and her Advisor regularly stay in touch, and she updates her Advisor with exciting news including themed days with her work colleagues!