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Success stories

The job search process can leave you tired and weary especially after you’ve applied to dozens, and sometimes hundreds, of jobs with little or no response. Every once in a while, it’s nice to have some inspiration to keep you going.

Inspiring job search stories

We’ve been speaking with our local partners and have found some great tales of job search success. These just might be the kick you need to keep going.

1) ATTFE College delivering digital support in local communities

Melanie purchased a laptop a few years ago and was scammed online. Extremely nervous about using technology, she wanted to buy a new phone and then began to use her laptop once again with confidence. 

In order to help Melanie understand a little more about how the technology worked after she’d purchased her new phone, we talked about the very basics of how a smartphone works, learning about the different types of phone contracts, phone security, the internet, broadband, storage on her device, and the 'cloud' and her email accounts.

Once Melanie understood and felt confident in knowing her phone was secure, we began to look at what the phone could do, discovering how the apps worked, and finally looking at any further apps she needed or wished to use. Each week, Melanie returned having practised using her phone and becoming more confident in using the technology. Though she knows there’s still so much more available to discover, she is now happy and confident being able to keep in contact with her parents via WhatsApp. 

But she hasn’t finished! Melanie is now keen to start using her laptop again and so we’re planning on working together to re-build her confidence in using both devices. 

2) A good role model for my son

Rob was referred to NHS Foundation Trust - Future’s Positive programme to help explore career options and improve his employability skills. Rob has dyslexia and a mild learning disability, due to which his schooling was disrupted and he left with no formal qualifications. Rob also has a family history of mental health difficulties. Due to multiple barriers and his struggle with motivation and depression, Rob also faced episodes of homelessness and spent a major part of his early adulthood in sheltered accommodation or hostels.

A year ago, Rob discovered he had a son from a past relationship, who he was allowed contact with by social services. This was a turning point in Rob’s life as it gave him a purpose in life and motivation to look for jobs that would help him to become more financially stable and independent. Rob greatly values his role as a dad and hence wanted to get a job to help build his self-esteem and confidence and be a good role model for his son. Initially, Rob was only looking for construction roles as that was the only thing he was familiar with.

With in-depth exploration of his skills and interests, Rob was able to identify skills and experience that he had gained while doing practical and DIY tasks for friends and family and also in his various volunteering roles within sheltered accommodation. During job searches, Rob looked at roles that would be more hands on, but would also allow him to work with people, as he is very helpful by nature and enjoys interacting with people. Rob found jobs within the facilities department in the NHS quite appealing, as they offered him both aspects. Since Rob had no prior experience of working within a healthcare setting, this became a challenge for him on how to evidence any experience and skills related to the job roles. Rob was then supported to secure a work experience placement within the NHS through The Prince's Trust project.

After completing 3 months of intense work experience where Rob showed excellent timekeeping and trained in different areas, he started applying for roles within the NHS with the support of the employment specialist. Rob was successful in securing an interview. Rob had never attended a formal interview and was a bit anxious and uncertain about it, but with support around interview preparation - that included watching YouTube videos - he was successful in securing a job.

Rob feels excited to be part of the NHS workforce and feels that he can now develop himself and become a good role model for his son. Rob faced a few challenges along the way. He struggled with fluctuations in his own mental health triggered by a tragic family bereavement, and his frustration in not being able to see his son more regularly and be part of his life. However, Rob persevered with his journey and feels that he has fulfilled his dream of having a proper job where he will be part of an organisation that values his skills and experience.

3) Adult numeracy programme Multiply making a positive impact

Linda's story:

“I have saved £95 since I did the course with Inspire Learning. This is stuff I don’t normally absorb and now I can put it into practice. I have phoned my utilities companies and have swapped tariffs to better deals, I now bulk-buy certain things. I get a lift to Costco and buy food and toiletries. I save a bit each week and do more of a monthly shop now. I used to buy pet food at 1kg for £8. I now save for this and buy 10kg for £65, which saves me £15 and I also have it delivered free. I feel more relaxed about shopping as I used to have to go to the shops every other day, on the bus, but I don’t have to do that now. I really enjoyed the course and the tutor (Anna) was kind, caring, and patient, which is what I need as I am disabled and have mental health needs. This course changed my life and my finances”.

4) Enterprising Ashfield supporting business start up and skills development within the district:

Paulette Sturman attended the Digital Skills for Marketing and Communications course, delivered through Nottingham Trent University's Enterprising Ashfield project.

The practical course is designed to develop an understanding of design principles and effective visual communication skills for marketing on the computer. Aimed at beginners with limited or no knowledge of design software, participants will progress the basics and quickly develop their ability to design professional-looking documents.

You can see a number of case studies through the Enterprising Ashfield project here: