Richard, 28, from Wolverhampton has a learning
disability, and had been unemployed since leaving education more
than eight years previously.
He always had a passionate interest in
decorating cakes, and had been keen to work in catering, achieving
his City and Guilds in catering at Bilston College in 2002.
However, due to his learning difficulties and low self-esteem he
had always been unsuccessful when attending interviews.
Richard was referred to the Pathways to Work
programme in Wolverhampton by his Disability Employment Adviser at
Jobcentre Plus. His Seetec Adviser immediately began working
with Richard to establish some long and short term job goals.
Richard explained that he had a good knowledge of safety in the
kitchen and the importance of keeping food areas clean and
hygienic, and welcomed the opportunity to work in a busy and
friendly kitchen.
Both Richard and his Adviser decided it would
be a good idea to obtain a current Food Safety in Catering
award. A place was booked for Richard with Wolverhampton
College and with plenty of support and encouragement; Richard
attended the course and successfully achieved his level 2 award in
Food Safety in Catering. Together with a basic skills course,
Richard’s confidence soared and his desire grew to find a suitable
job where he could utilise his new award.
When the Bradmore Arms pub in Wolverhampton advertised for
staff, Richard was encouraged to apply. Richard was keen but
also apprehensive, and needed help in completing the application
form and preparing for a possible job interview. The pub
which had been undergoing a refurbishment, had been inundated with
applications, but fortunately Richard was selected for an interview
and, successfully short-listed for a second interview. Richard was
informed a few days later that the Bradmore Arms would like him to
join their new team.
Moving off benefits was a huge step for Richard, and over the
following weeks his Adviser supported and eased his anxieties about
coming off his benefits. Richard was helped to apply for his
Return to Work Credits, and met up with his new Manager to ensure a
successful transition for Richard.
His new employer explained that they were extremely impressed
with him at his interviews and were warmed by his enthusiasm. To
date, Richard is very happy in his new role and he is currently
undertaking NVQ training and plans to become a chef one day.
Richard is very happy with the service and support he received from
Seetec and is thoroughly enjoying his first taste of
employment.
Richard said: “Since I started at the Bradmore Arms, my
confidence has gone up in leaps and bounds. I’m working hard and
getting on well with everyone. My life has changed so much –
if I can do it, anyone can!”
If you would
like to find out more about Pathways to Work in the Black Country,
please click here.