European Social Fund (ESF) case study - Springboard Opportunities 4 - JobWorks+

Participant's story

Before the participant started her journey with JobWorks+, she faced several barriers to employment. A negative experience with a previous employer and the emotional impact of finding herself unemployed again had massively affected her confidence and self-esteem.

On enrolling with JobWorks+ the participant signed up for a Health and Social Care programme which she hoped would help her gain employment within this sector. Through this she gained 4 OCN (Open College Network) qualifications which would enhance her ability to move into a health care role and had assistance from her mentor to add these to her new CV which they created together.

One-to-one mentoring

The participant successfully applied for a position within a residential care home where she gained practical, paid experience which allowed her to progress to a new role working within a local hospital. Through one-to-one mentoring she had identified this as her ultimate aim and she is particularly grateful for the support she received which has enabled her to achieve this within such a short timeframe.

The participant reported that through completing the Health and Social Care programme, her confidence and motivation increased.

She stated,

“I feel that the confidence that was damaged through my previous employment experience has begun to grow again through building relationships with my peers and from building professional relationships with Springboard staff. I have developed skills in group work and am confident working as part of a team. These skills helped me in my new role as a care worker as I am always communicating with others to make sure the service users are getting the best possible care.”