Micheal was initially signposted to the ESF funded Right Steps to Work programme at Halifax Opportunities Trust for support with returning to work. After some time off due to health reasons, Micheal felt he was ready to start thinking about looking for work again. He wasn’t sure about what kind of work he wanted to do but it needed to be something that could fit around his home life and health conditions. Micheal initially needed help from his keyworker as he did not have a CV, it had been some years since he had carried out any training, he also didn’t have an up-to-date work reference.
Following an initial meeting with his keyworker and carrying out a needs assessment, it was identified that Micheal would benefit from attending an employability course to help him improve his applications. Once Micheal had completed this course, he then attended a Level 2 Health & Safety in the Workplace course to get an up-to-date qualification.
Micheal’s next identified step was to do some voluntary work to gain a work reference and work experience. His keyworker identified an ideal placement at Community Transport Calderdale as a driver/ passenger assistant and arranged for Micheal to attend an interview with the volunteer coordinator. He attended the interview, really liked the organisation and decided he would like to carry out his work experience there. He completed a DBS check and whilst volunteering he carried out in-house training.
Micheal’s confidence was growing day by day; he was very enthusiastic and really enjoyed meeting new people. He says “I particularly enjoy meeting the elderly customers I pick up and drop off, there are some great characters”. Since starting his volunteering and with the help of his keyworker, Micheal has been offered a job with Community Transport and officially started in a paid role with them this month. This has had a very positive impact for Micheal and his family both financially and emotionally.
For more information about our Employment Services, please contact Lisa Connelly on 01422 347392
