Exploring my options – Hanna’s story

Hanna came to Work Routes with a stealth of experience from her long-term career in the banking sector. Having recently been made redundant, Hana felt that she needed support with the next steps of her career path.

Hanna was initially introduced to Work Routes at a wellness event organised by the Moat Foundation and found that she was eligible to sign up on the day due to her status as a carer.

Upon joining Work Routes, Hanna met with Employment Adviser, Renique, whom she discussed her future job goals with, and the flexibility she required to work around caring for her mother.

“My Employment Adviser made me aware of what the job sector entailed, what different roles entailed, and what I needed to proceed with this sector”, said Hanna.

After exploring local opportunities, with the support of Renique, Hanna secured a volunteering role with a local school, which gave her the opportunity to explore the roles before fully committing to applying for paid roles.

It was identified that interview skills and CV support was required, due to Hanna’s 25 yearlong role at the bank. With the support from Work Routes, Hanna was able to develop her employability skills and update her knowledge around how job applications are completed and submitted.

Work Routes deliver in-house courses that focus on job supporting elements. Like Hanna, many of our participants benefit from workshop sessions that focus on job preparation elements including self-confidence, IT skills, health and wellbeing, and job sector taster days.

“I found it helpful being able to speak directly to the team at Work Routes. I think given the people you are trying to help, it’s important to meet in-person where possible, otherwise they wouldn’t necessarily look online, especially, if like me, they’re not going to the Jobcentre.

“I hadn’t thought about my needs as carer, I’m just thinking about my mother, it’s just what you do for your parents, however, I think it’s good to be informed of the support that is available to me.

“My future goals are to secure paid employment in the teaching sector, with part time hours so that I can work around caring for my mother.”