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 led to a loss of confidence in her ability to re-enter the job market. Beatrice had a clear vision of the type of work she wanted to pursue. Working closely with her connector, she was able to refresh her CV to better reflect her skills and experience in a more concise way. Her Connector also introduced her to the value of using professional social media platforms like LinkedIn to showcase her strengths to potential employers. Together, they explored the importance of tailoring cover letters, not just to avoid AI filters, but to add a personal touch that reflected her personality and drive. Through this support, Beatrice regained confidence in her job search abilities. She began applying for various roles with more self-assurance and a clearer strategy. Over the course of the programme, she was invited to several interviews, which further boosted her confidence and helped her feel more prepared to return to the workforce. As a result of her perseverance and determination, 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 Connector, and I am sad that they are ending.” Beatrice

After being made redundant from a long-term role that he loved, Jack felt motivated to move forward but unsure of how to navigate the modern job market. With the added pressure of a potential eviction in the future and his confidence beginning to waver, Jack joined the programme seeking support and direction. Working closely with his Connector, Jack brought his CV up to current industry standards and gained a better understanding of how AI is used in today’s job applications. Armed with this new knowledge, he began crafting tailored cover letters that highlighted his extensive retail experience and transferable skills, helping him stand out to potential employers. Alongside his job search, Jack also received vital support with his housing situation. He set up a Home Choice account and worked with his Connector to fully understand this process. With newfound confidence and feeling self-assured in his ability to perform well in interviews, Jack applied for several roles across the retail sector. He was successful in securing a position at LIDL, receiving excellent feedback on his interview. “This programme has helped me feel more settled and confident in life” Jack

Kevin joined Empowering Communities due to a lack of confidence in finding work. After experiencing long periods of illness throughout his work history. mainly due to mental health and sleep-related issues, he felt lost and frustrated at the job market. He was particularly concerned about transitioning from his current volunteering role back into the workforce, as volunteering had become a safety net in case his health problems resurfaced. By working with his connector to rebuild his confidence, Kevin was able to recognise the valuable transferable skills he had developed in previous roles and how these could be applied to new job opportunities. He created a job specific CV that highlighted his skills and experience, which in turn helped boost his self-worth and belief in himself. Through ongoing support, Kevin was able to explore work options that aligned with his current health needs, while also being gently encouraged out of his comfort zone. This led him to realise he was capable of more than he had thought. After applying for various roles across multiple sectors, including retail and support work, Kevin was invited to interview for a position that closely matched his knowledge and experience. Thanks to his improved confidence and practiced interview techniques, he successfully secured a new role as a support worker. To continue building on his progress, Kevin has also enrolled in an ICT course at college to further develop his digital skills and feel more confident using computer systems. Kevin shared that he would continue managing his mental health and work alongside his doctors to improve his sleep. Realising that his capability had always been there was the key to Kevin’s success. Quote: ​ 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.​

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 our programme. 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.