Employment Support Programmes

After being made redundant from long-term employment, Beatrice joined the Empowering Communities programme. She was concerned that her age and extensive experience might discourage potential employers, which affected her confidence in returning to work. Working closely with her Advisor, Beatrice refreshed her CV to better highlight her skills and experience, created a LinkedIn profile to showcase her strengths, and learned how to tailor cover letters to reflect her personality as well as the requirements of each role. This support helped her regain confidence, apply for roles with a clear strategy, and secure several interviews. As a result of her determination and the support received through the programme, Beatrice secured full-time employment. "Thank you so much for all your encouragement and for assisting me with my LinkedIn profile, CV, and cover letter. Your guidance and support made a real difference, and I truly appreciate it. Because of the programme, my confidence in applying for jobs and my CV has improved. My cover letters have also improved too. I enjoyed the sessions with my Advisor, and I am sad that they are ending." – Beatrice

After being made redundant from a long-term role, Jack joined the programme looking for support to navigate the modern job market. With concerns about a potential future eviction and a loss of confidence, he worked closely with his Advisor to update his CV, understand how artificial intelligence is used in recruitment, and develop tailored cover letters that highlighted his retail experience and transferable skills. Jack also received support with his housing situation, setting up a Home Choice account and gaining a better understanding of the process. Feeling more confident in his job search and interview skills, he applied for several retail roles and successfully secured a position with Lidl, receiving excellent feedback following his interview. "This programme has helped me feel more settled and confident in life" – Jack

Kevin joined the Empowering Communities programme after experiencing long periods of illness related to his mental health and sleep, which had affected his confidence in finding work. He was concerned about moving from volunteering into paid employment, as volunteering had become a safety net while managing his health. Working with his Advisor, Kevin rebuilt his confidence, identified his transferable skills, and developed a tailored CV that highlighted his experience. Together, they explored suitable job opportunities, helping him recognise his capabilities and prepare for interviews. Kevin successfully secured a new role as a Support Worker and has since enrolled on an Information and Communication Technology course to further develop his digital skills. He continues to manage his health while building a positive future in employment. "You installed a new confidence in me. I think when I initially came in my self-worth was so low, you highlighted the positives in me and helped me not focus on the negatives of my past. I now feel much more confident in myself." – Kevin

Nick had worked as a cleaner, but health issues from toxic products left him out of work for two years and unsure about returning to the industry. Through the course, he learned to deconstruct job adverts, tailor his CV and apply online. A mock interview with feedback boosted his confidence and helped refine his responses. Nick was invited to several interviews, including one with a company using non-toxic products. The interview went well and he secured a full-time, permanent role.

After being dismissed from her nursery role due to a long-term health condition, Sue felt discouraged and low in confidence despite her qualifications and experience. Through 1:1 sessions with SEK, she used solution-focused techniques to rebuild confidence, set goals and recognise the strengths she brings to nursery education. With growing self-belief, Sue began applying again and was offered three interviews. She secured a full-time Level 3 Nursery Practitioner role and, with in-work support from SEK, is still thriving six months in.

Ingrid’s confidence took a hit after becoming unemployed. With a background in a specialist industry, she knew what she wanted but didn’t know how to find or apply for it. Through the course, she learned how to break down job adverts and tailor her CV. English isn’t her first language, so mock interview practice helped her stay calm under pressure. She built strong connections in group sessions and grew in confidence. Now, Ingrid is a Mental Health Navigator, helping launch a new programme that she’s proud to be part of.

James, a qualified tradesman, faced health issues that left him unemployed for nearly two years. Looking for roles better suited to his needs, he joined one of our employment support programmes. With support, he learned to deconstruct job adverts and tailor his CV to match different roles. A skills analysis revealed his transferable strengths and competencies. By using the STAR technique during mock interviews, he was able to answer questions with confidence. He’s now thriving as a delivery driver, a role he hadn’t considered, but one he’s truly enjoying.