Restart Scheme
Having been out of work for four years after fleeing domestic violence, single parent Sian’s confidence level was extremely low. When referred to the Restart Scheme, Sian was sceptical about how it could support her, expressing it felt like a ‘tick box exercise’, but she gave it a go.
Fast forward just a few months, and Sian has started work as a part-time Customer Services Advisor at Serco, saying, “this is not the case… [the Restart Scheme] is way better than I thought it would be!”
Sian was introduced to Cherag, her Job Coach from Serco, and together they developed Sian’s CV and built upon her interview skills as it had been six years since her last one. Completing these sessions on a one-to-one basis provided a space for Sian’s confidence to flourish, and soon she was able to consider applying for suitable job roles.
With Sian being a single parent, Cherag ensured her Restart Scheme sessions were booked flexibly to work around her parenting responsibilities. Sian says: “I felt at ease. Cherag is easy to talk to and flexible regarding appointments. He helped me build a new CV and matched me to roles that met my skills and requirements.”
A position was sourced from within Serco, who operate Customer Call Centres across the UK, providing Work from Home opportunities to individuals who may otherwise struggle to commute to work due to living in a remote area, being unable to access public transport, or juggle caring responsibilities.
Following a successful interview, Sian was offered her new role and undertook a three-week training course in Customer Services which has also enhanced her CV. As Sian was unable to afford childcare during her training period, Cherag arranged for funded childcare to be put in place. With Sian's hard work having paid off, she says:
"I thoroughly enjoyed working with the Restart Scheme. They made me feel welcome and supported to build my confidence, work on my skills and develop a professional CV. Cherag and the team always showed compassion and understanding for my circumstances and were accommodating when I needed to reschedule meetings due to childcare.
The employment I have now secured has meant me and my children are financially secure, I am able to be around for school runs and the company are very accommodating and supportive. I am happy I joined the Restart Scheme and can now focus on working towards a brighter future for myself and my family."
By mid-2022, Serco was able to place over 100 Restart Scheme Participants like Sian into Work from Home roles across 7 regional employers, including Serco, with an average of 30 people a week attending training to commence these roles.
