Restart Scheme

“I was treated with respect and not just undermined as a job seeker”

4th Nov 2021 Restart Scheme

Sadia* loved helping others volunteering at a mental health organisation, but after three years of jumping from one temporary role to another, she was the one who needed support to keep her dream alive…

“My experience with the Restart Scheme has been great from the beginning. I felt heard and supported.”

Not every jobseeker is the same; everyone has their own particular strengths and challenges, so tailored support is the best way to help. Pally, one of Serco’s Restart Scheme Job Coaches, got to know Sadia’s strengths and ambitions, and what was holding her back. 

Pally could see Sadia had all the qualities needed for a career in mental health support such as patience and a desire to help others, and her volunteering proved she also had the passion and motivation to make a difference. But she needed encouragement as well practical support so she could believe in herself. 

“Pally helped me in seeking jobs that would actually fulfil my career aspirations and played on my strengths.”

The Restart Scheme is not about getting people into just any job, but actually supporting individuals to make the most of their strengths to realise their career aspirations, so Pally worked with Sadia to put a plan in place. With a clear roadmap to her goal and Pally’s continued encouragement, Sadia knew she could realise her aspiration.

As Pally recognised it could take a little time for Sadia to find her dream role, he teed up an admin job at a local training provider which matched her skills so she could gain valuable work experience, improve her confidence, and most importantly keep her spirits up.

It wasn’t long before an opportunity came up at a youth mental health organisation and Pally immediately jumped on it, knowing it would be right up Sadia’s street. With an interview lined up, Pally supported Sadia so she felt confident and ready to shine. 

“I was treated with respect and not just undermined as a job seeker. This has made me successful in gaining employment again.”

Sadia was offered the role as a full-time mental health support worker. Pally wasn’t prepared to give up on Sadia, and she is sure this unfaltering support is the reason why she is now realising her dream:

“I just wanted to say thank you so much for all your help and believing in me.”

 

*Pseudonym

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