Participant's story
People 1st tells the story of a participant who came to their Community Family Support Programme (CFSP) through a local community group that regularly refers people and engages with the CFSP team.
The participant, a young mother, struggling with confidence, mental health, and anxiety had reached the end of her tether, with limited options to move forward in life, prior to being referred to People 1st CFSP.
Having conducted a thorough assessment People 1st, CFSP determined that she was struggling financially and needed assistance with her mental health, confidence and self-esteem. The participant was afraid to pursue work or education because she was a sole parent and had difficulty managing her finances.
Advice
The People 1st, CFSP team helped her with childcare advice and eased financial concerns, plus assisted in finding the best childcare options and maintaining financial stability. As a result, the participant was less stressed and had the confidence to pursue her goals and increase her income.
Support and goal setting
With regular support, workshops and goal setting, the participant’s confidence grew. This included a desire to learn to drive, aiding increased independence and improving her lifestyle. People 1st, CFSP provided access to driving theory classes to help her become more socially included and confident.
CV and job search assistance
The participant had a natural talent for childcare and a strong desire to learn more about opportunities in this field. People 1st, CFSP customised the participant’s CVs through personal engagement, provided in-depth job search assistance, interview techniques and made direct applications to childcare companies.
She then secured a volunteer position at a local day nursery, allowing her to gain self-esteem, confidence and experience, while minimising the impact on stress, childcare and income concerns.
The participant was eligible to participate in a recognised qualification, a level 3 childcare apprenticeship. Close collaboration with the participant and relevant companies helped her secure a job and assist the completion of an apprenticeship.
The participant stated:
“You have totally changed my life and the support I have received has been priceless. Without the help and support from the CFSP Team, I wouldn’t have known I could complete an Apprenticeship or have found the job I really wanted.”