Case study: Louise

Lower Broughton: handyperson

Finding a job after years on benefits was really daunting. I just didn’t know how to start and I didn’t have any confidence. I dropped out from school with no qualifications and I just never thought work was for me. I visited Skills and Work because I really needed the guidance. I was surprised to find out that I would be better off at work - that went against anything I had heard before! They also helped me prepare my CV and gave me help to find a course that would help me get the job I wanted. After I completed my BTEC in construction I got an interview to work for Helping Hands. My advisor, Jeff, even gave me a lift to my first interview!

I started working for Helping Hands almost a year ago and I love my job. I do home repairs for older people and people with disabilities, and I really get a buzz out of helping them. I also like that my day is really varied, and I’m constantly learning new things.

Now I’m working I feel totally different, my life has changed completely. I’m more confident and I feel proud to be making my own money and to be a much better role model for my daughter. I also have more money so I can treat us to nice things.

This page was last updated on 3 October 2009