Kate* was referred to the West of England Works project by the South Gloucestershire transitions team with the objective of getting her back in to full time education and preferably gain part time employment as well. Kate had multiple barriers to employment or training such as Autism, lack of qualifications, social isolation and a low confidence.

Through regular 1:1 sessions with her job coach, Kate developed her knowledge around employment, including work based skills, interview preparation and how to do job searches independently. Her confidence soon improved from continuous encouragement, which then enabled her to approach employers on her own. She contacted a hotel regarding a Housekeeper/Team Member role and was invited to interview for the post. She did an amazing job at the interview and as a result was offered the job on a permanent basis! She is very proud to be in paid work for the first time in her life.

Kate had a real desire to pursue a career within the art industry so, together with her job coach, researched several colleges and found one that could provide her with the right support. She blew them away with her portfolio and was accepted on a full-time Art & Design Level 2 course. She started studying in September 2019 and is loving every minute of college life!

Kate’s job coach is extremely proud of her and everything that she has achieved.

Find out about our Employment Support HERE.

*name has been changed to protect identity.