When Prabhjot joined the Restart Scheme in 2024, she had already overcome significant challenges. After arriving in the UK in 2019 from India, she experienced domestic abuse, was abandoned and left homeless with her 2-year-old son and had no family support network nearby. With help from local organisations, she secured accommodation, obtained Indefinite Leave to Remain and began rebuilding her life.
To create a better future for herself and her son, Prabhjot focused on developing her skills. She completed English and maths courses, gained her driving licence, volunteered in her local community and took part in support available through Jobcentre Plus.
Through the Restart Scheme, Prabhjot was introduced to Serco’s Employer Engagement team and matched to a Retail Assistant vacancy with Iceland. She received support throughout the recruitment process, from the initial matching conversation through to her interview, helping her feel prepared and confident.
In September 2024, Prabhjot secured the role and began working at Iceland.
Returning to work after everything she had been through was not without its challenges. Prabhjot has spoken openly about struggling with confidence and anxiety, but she was supported by her managers and colleagues as she settled into the role. With additional training, encouragement and patience, she gradually became more confident in her abilities and more comfortable in the workplace.
The support she received extended beyond her day-to-day role. After securing her first home, colleagues helped her furnish it by donating household items. She was also signposted to a grant that helped her purchase flooring and other essentials, allowing her to create a home for herself and her son.
Prabhjot also had a personal goal of reuniting with her family. Recognising this, Iceland increased her contracted hours, helping her work towards the financial requirements needed to sponsor her mother’s visa application. Today, Prabhjot is in stable employment and has built a life that once felt out of reach. She has her own home, a car, increased confidence and a positive outlook for the future.
At the Serco Restart Scheme Employer Appreciation Event in Birmingham earlier this year, Prabhjot stood up in front of a room of 100 people to share her inspiring Restart Scheme success story, encouraging more employers to engage with and see the benefits first-hand of utilising the Restart Scheme.
Speaking about her experience, Prabhjot said:
“Money is important, but job satisfaction is even more important. Iceland gave me confidence, supported me when I needed it most and made me feel safe. Serco and Iceland have completely changed my life.”
