My future – Sharon’s story

Sharon heard about Work Routes from a friend, and as she was eager to return to work, but wasn’t sure on where to begin, she completed a self-referral form to join the programme. A member of the team contacted Sharon the following day and booked an initial appointment with Employment Adviser, Jude.

Jude got to know Sharon and her circumstances at home, so that together they could assess what work would be most suitable and sustainable for the future. Sharon shared that she had previously left work to care for her mum, who struggled with mental health and dementia. Unfortunately, Sharon’s mum’s health deteriorated, and she had to go into a care facility, meaning a change in circumstances for Sharon.

“I was allocated the same Employment Adviser as my friend, so I immediately felt comfortable when speaking to Jude. Having the support of Jude and the team at Work Routes, during such a difficult time in my life was invaluable”, said Sharon.

Participants are allocated their own Employment Adviser, who will be there to support them throughout their time on the programme. Employment Advisers will assess job readiness, transferrable skills, whilst working together to create an individual action plan with the end goal of reaching suitable and sustainable employment.

Jude worked with Sharon on a one-to-one basis to help her regain confidence and self-belief in preparation for becoming job ready. After just a few months of regular appointments with Jude and completing several workshops that focused on interview practice and techniques, self-confidence and managing anxiety, Sharon felt she was ready to begin applying for jobs.

Sharon updated her CV with Jude, to highlight all her transferrable skills and work experience in admin and care. Whilst looking at jobs in these sectors, Sharon applied for a manager role with her local council and completed mock interviews with the Work Routes team for practice.

Following the success of her interview, Sharon was offered the job. “I was over the moon for Sharon when she heard the news. I arranged a voucher towards some new work clothes, to give her that extra boost of confidence”, said Jude.

Sharon told us: “When I started Work Routes, the support allowed me to see past what was happening then, showing me how to plan and look towards the future. I am so grateful for this support, as I am not sure I could have managed to get a job so quickly without it!”