2022 ESF case study - People 1st 2
The Community Family Support Programme, delivered by People 1st, is for families wanting help and support to address any health, social and economic issues that impact their daily lives. It is aimed at people aged 16 or over who are not in education, employment or training and is part funded through the Northern Ireland European Social Fund Programme 2014-2020 and the Department for the Economy.
Participant's story
After moving to Northern Ireland several years ago, this participant came to People 1st, CFSP in the hopes of changing her life. After years of domestic violence, trauma and spending time with her child in support facilities for women affected by abuse, life had not been easy. After her divorce, she was shunned by her family and social circles.
Prior to joining the programme, the participant had received rejections from so many job applications that it resulted in her having a lack of confidence and self-esteem. Financial concerns weighed heavily on her mind as well, affecting her mental health and well-being.
Tailored support
At People 1st, CFSP examined her situation, tailored the CFSP wraparound service to her needs, concentrated on her self-esteem and mental health, and assisted her in making plans for a brighter future. Working with the participant to find ways to alleviate her financial concerns and develop a plan for better financial management she became more independent, self-assured and confident.
Facilitating the use of local food banks to provide essential food parcels helped the participant to maintain her pride and dignity and aided budgeting for other winter essentials, such as reducing the risk of fuel poverty.
CV guidance
Having established realistic goals and with support, the participant began to investigate working in childcare, an area in which she had previous experience. Next step was the creation of a CV which would aid job applications. In addition, the participant received assistance through a local city council initiative, which allowed her to complete a childcare qualification.
People 1st, CFSP assisted with searching for jobs in the childcare industry, putting the participant in touch with childcare companies directly and giving one-on-one support for interview preparation. With this support, the participant was successful in securing a job.
She stated:
“The support I have received has been amazing and without the help from People 1st and CFSP this would not have been possible. The changes that have come about will improve not only my life but also my child’s”.