Restart Scheme
Following a redundancy, Mark* took time to explore his options before re-entering the workforce. His long-term goal was to make use of the Chimney Sweeping qualification he’d earnt before national restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic, but he was willing to consider other work too.
Mark’s main barrier to employment was his confidence and, working with his Job Coach, Adele from Newport City Council, Mark’s CV was improved. He also learnt valuable techniques on how to communicate his skills and experience during an interview. Each appointment with Adele gave him the confidence boost he needed to continue with his job search.
Mark also took part in Serco’s assessment day recruiting for OneBelow UK, an expanding budget retail store, who were looking to fill several roles. Following screening, Mark was put forward for the position of Store Manager and received positive feedback following his interview.
> Read about the support we provided to OneBelow UK to recruit across Wales.
This news, although welcome, helped Mark to focus on his end-goal and he decided that the Store Manager’s position would not be right for him. Following his passion over a pay cheque, he refocussed his search on Chimney Sweep work and was offered and accepted a part-time position of 16 hours a week with a Cardiff based chimney sweep firm. The role comes with the prospect of full-time hours in the future.
Mark’s Job Coach, Adele, said: “I have completed several In Work Support calls with Mark and am pleased to report that he is very happy. He is doing the job he dreamed of and it has been a long-time in the making. We remain in contact and Mark has been offered additional mentoring support.”
*Pseudonym
