Through the Restart Scheme, Jobs 22 helped Linda overcome mobility challenges to get a new job at The Range and a sleek new look!
Linda had been unemployed since 2015 and was feeling discouraged. She was worried that her age and arthritis would be a barrier to finding employment. But with the help of her employment coach, Billie Shan, Linda was able to gain the skills and confidence she needed to get back into work.
With the support of our Skills Trainer, Donna Spreag, Linda embraced the opportunity to develop her skills and knowledge through our Skills Training Sessions. This included sessions on the Jobs 22 App, interview skills, and confidence building. Linda was also signposted to a Digital Skills Course at a nearby college.
Billie helped Linda get her right-to-work documents and a replacement birth certificate. Billie also ensured that Employer Services Consultant Jo Fensome-Peake understood Linda’s support needs to find her the perfect role. Linda’s friendly personality came through in her interview and she was subsequently offered the role. Linda believes that, by attending the sessions, she was better able to navigate her interview and remember to ask questions at the end. Clearly, the employer had every faith in her capabilities, as did the team supporting her. Linda said, “I remembered to take a breath and think before speaking. When in the interview, I felt relaxed. I remembered that Donna said it was a two-way process, not just for the employer. Jo had helped me to prepare and reassured me that I could do this.”
Linda was also struggling with her long hair due to her arthritis, so Billie arranged for Linda to visit the local hair salon. Linda came back into the office to show off her new professional look with a sleek, short hairstyle, and she felt amazing!
Linda has now been in her job role for a few weeks and said that she is loving it. Linda’s story is an inspiring one of determination and resilience. With the help of her Employment Coach, she was able to gain the skills and confidence she needed to get back into work. Linda advises others in her position to “embrace it, take what your Employment Coach says as advice and not criticism; it will all work out.”
“I’m enjoying work and being out of the house. I wanted to be around people and have a purpose. I am so pleased that I came onto the Restart Scheme. I have enjoyed all of the sessions, it has been enlightening. Thank you to Billie, Donna, and Jo for all their help and support.”
Through the Restart Scheme, Jobs 22 helped Linda overcome mobility challenges to get a new job at The Range and a sleek new look!
