Restart Scheme
Ex-business owner, Victor, used to run a coffee shop back in El Salvador, but was forced to flee his home country due to violence. With limited English, Victor struggled to find work and found himself unemployed for nearly two years. Victor was committed to not letting his situation define him. Instead, he contacted his local job centre to see what support was available.
Victor was referred onto the Restart Scheme, which is delivered by Itec Skills & Employment on behalf of Serco in Wales. Victor met his employability advisor, Hayley, who supported him to gain the right to work in the UK, as well as help Victor to access an English language course.
Victor and Hayley worked to develop Victor’s CV, source various job opportunities, and to prepare him for interview. Victor secured an interview, and subsequently a full-time position, with Amazon, where he works as a Picker. He says:
“I am really happy with the Restart Scheme. They showed me what I needed to do, how to do it, and supported me every step of the way. Without Itec and the Restart Scheme, I would be lost.”
Victor was keen to take up the Restart Scheme offer of additional, in-work support and requested Hayley help him to source additional training options. Victor now studies during the day, whilst working the nightshift at Amazon. He continues:
“My advice to anyone who is in a similar position to myself is to study. Learn the language as best as you can, and constantly try to add to your skillset and knowledge.”
Now in work, and with the potential to save, Victor has further ambition for the future and wishes to once again be his own boss in the UK alongside with his wife, a trained Chef. Together they hope to provide the people of Swansea the opportunity to eat classic Salvadorian cuisine through their business.
