After leaving college in 2023 with a Level 2 qualification in childcare, Katie found herself struggling to enter the workforce. Despite her passion for working with children, her experience was limited to a short college-arranged placement and a few volunteer roles through a previous employability programme. These opportunities, while valuable, weren’t enough to build the confidence or practical experience needed to secure paid employment.
Compounding these challenges were significant health issues. Katie suffers from severe anxiety, particularly in crowded environments, and occasionally experiences depression. These mental health struggles made attending interviews daunting and further eroded her self-confidence.
Joining the Restart Scheme, Katie was paired with an Employment Advisor who provided consistent one-to-one support. The advisor offered not only practical help but also emotional encouragement, tailoring appointments to suit her health needs. Together, they worked on improving her CV and cover letters, and she received help with job applications.
To build her confidence and resilience, Katie engaged in workshops focused on self-esteem and wellbeing. These sessions helped her begin to manage her anxiety and feel more hopeful about her future.
A turning point came when she was referred to a two-week work experience placement at Tesco, specifically designed to support young people with disabilities. Despite facing a deeply personal loss—the death of her grandmother during the placement—she showed remarkable resilience and completed the programme.
Her progress was evident. She became more motivated and confident, and her efforts were rewarded with a seasonal job offer from Tesco. The feedback from the employer was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting her dedication and growth.
Reflecting on her journey, Katie shared:
“The Restart Scheme has helped me feel like I’m not alone. Restart has been amazing—I feel supported and am excited to start my new temporary job.”
Her Employment Advisor echoed this sentiment, noting:
“Katie has made remarkable progress despite facing serious health challenges. Their resilience and commitment to improving their situation is inspiring. They are now in a much stronger position to move towards employment when ready.”
This story is a testament to the power of holistic, compassionate support. With the right guidance and understanding, Katie has taken meaningful steps toward employment and personal growth.
