Karl (58) was unemployed and wasn’t sure about asking for support until he found out about Derby College and the Way2Work project from a family member.
“I was supported to create a detailed CV and cover letter. I am not very computer literate, and I really needed this support.”
How did your Work Coach help you on Way2Work?
I was supported to create a detailed CV and cover letter. I am not very computer literate, and I really needed this support. Also, effective ways to job search and the various methods to apply for the roles. I was also supported with interview practice, preparation, and planning. Preparing scenarios, answers to possible questions from my previous experience. I was supported with transport costs to attend interviews and sessions. They also referred me to Sustrans to receive a push bike to travel to work on.
“Having the bike has enabled me to work various shifts and increase my income. I live alone and having the bike has enabled me to ride out to the peak district at weekends which has improved my health and wellbeing. I was supported after I started my job role to ensure I settled in.”
What skills or experience has Way2Work given you?
I have learnt how to job search and apply for relevant vacancies. I have learnt how to reflect on my previous experience and use examples in interviews to succeed. I have also improved using emails and communicating with potential employers.
What kind of jobs have you done before?
I have previously worked in production, warehouse distribution within the aerospace sector. I have also worked at the Post Office in the mail sorting office. I am now working at the Ted Baker distribution centre.
“I am enjoying my role and plan to stay with the company; it only takes me 10 minutes to cycle to work. It was so useful to have support as a step-by-step process of how to secure employment. Things have changed so much I would have struggled to succeed without this.”
Michelle (57) was referred to Way2Work by her work coach at the Job Centre.
My work coach supported me to build up my confidence. I had not been employed for 17 years and had no idea how to adapt to the current workplace, how to apply and what to expect.
My work coach supported me to create a CV and cover letter, how to search for and apply for jobs, interview preparation and practice. The constant support improved my confidence and I started to recognise my abilities.
“The constant support improved my confidence and I started to recognise my abilities.”
What skills or experience has Way2Work given you?
I now know how to apply for job roles and where to look and how to update my CV. I am now working and updated my skills in my cleaning role.
Many years ago, I worked as a packer and a cleaner. My new job role is a 10-minute walk from home and my duties involve cleaning the office area at a construction site.
“I am so pleased to be working after such a long time and I have been offered extra hours. I plan to continue in this role to build my confidence and increase the hours.”
The Way2Work project is part of the Nottingham Jobs Service and is part-funded by the European Social Fund (ESF).
