The participant brings an impressive background, holding a BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies (with practitioner status) and extensive experience within the educational sector. Despite these qualifications and a strong employment history, low confidence significantly hindered progress in the journey toward sustainable employment. A five-year career gap presented an additional challenge. During this time, the participant focused on full-time parenting, caring for two young children.
Recognising these challenges, the participant was transferred to the Health and Wellbeing service within the Restart Scheme. With the support of Health and Wellbeing Mentor, Amanda, and Health and Wellbeing Coach, Maya, a safe and supportive environment was created where the participant could openly discuss feelings of anxiety and self-doubt. Amanda cultivated a space where the participant felt safe to speak freely, be vulnerable, and honest about her fears and barriers. She worked with the
participant to explore and identify her core motivations including her children, the need for financial stability, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Maya supported the participant through practical employability guidance, working collaboratively to identify both hard and soft skills developed through previous roles and parenting responsibilities. Maya also engaged directly with employers to explore suitable opportunities, including voluntary placements, to support a gradual reintegration into the workforce, particularly within the educational sector, aligning with the participant’s long-term career aspirations. This combination of emotional support, motivational work, and practical career planning empowered the participant to rebuild her confidence and take meaningful steps toward employment.
A tailored action plan was also created and regularly reviewed, ensuring that all actions were clearly aligned with the participant’s identified support needs. These included a mix of health and wellbeing-focused activities and employment-related steps. For example, the participant took part in the 5-day Intuitive Thinking Skills TU Life course, designed to increase confidence, build resilience, and teach practical thinking strategies. On the employment side, actions included updating her CV and engaging in further learning via Digital College to enhance her digital and sector-relevant skills.
Showing determination and independence, the participant successfully secured a role as a catering assistant in a fast-food restaurant. Although this role differs from the participant’s long-term career aspirations in childcare, it represents an important step in building confidence and workplace momentum.
Following completion of the Intuitive Thinking Skills TU Life course, designed to improve cognitive skills and wellbeing, the participant reported feeling more hopeful and optimistic about the future. This renewed outlook, combined with the ongoing support from her Health and Wellbeing Mentor and Coach, has enabled her to begin actively pursuing employment opportunities aligned with her passion for childcare and education.
