Happy as Barry: Career Upskilling for the Over 50s
Through the Restart Scheme, Jobs 22 helped Barry upskill before he even started.
Barry Addison had worked for the Post Office for 30 years with no other job experience. Like many people who have lost a job after a lifetime in one industry, Barry needed support to understand which of his skills would be useful to other employers.
After being referred to the Restart Scheme, we quickly realised that Barry had many transferable skills from having spent every working day dealing with members of the public. Barry has an upbeat and unflappable nature which makes him suitable for a number of other customer-facing, service sector roles. We worked closely with Barry, exploring new job opportunities, improving his confidence, and upskilling his qualifications.
Barry said, “Being in one job for so long, you do get stuck into a way of working, which may not be able to fit new working practises, and I was worried about learning new skills at my age, but with the help of the people at Job22, Stafford branch, and my work coach Julian Goldstraw, we were able to work through things and come to a very happy result of me stating in a new job.”
Barry completed an Intuitive Thinking Skills course to support him with a positive mindset and confidence building.
So, when a driving opportunity became available at 24/7 Group, a specialist transportation company that ensures children and young adults with special educational needs can get to school safely, we encouraged Barry to apply for the position.
The Restart Scheme Difference for Barry:
CV and interview prep
Mindset and confidence building course (Intuitive Thinking)
DBS checks and certificate
Taxi licence application and fee
Safeguarding for Children and Vulnerable
Adults, Level 2 (Digital College)
Team Barry cheerleaders: employment coaches, skills trainers, and employer services consultants at Jobs 22
“We knew it would be a big change for Barry and that he’d excel in the role, said Claire Peake, RestartScheme Employer Services Coach at Jobs 22. “Supported Barry through the interview prep, and he was offered the role subject to getting the relevant qualifications. It was a great day!”
The work didn’t stop there. We arranged for enhanced security checks as he’d be working with vulnerable people as well as helping Barry with all the required paperwork and training. He’s now fully Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certified and has secured a taxi licence thanks to the Restart Scheme’s participant fund.
Barry continued, “I always loved the driving, delivering things to their correct destination and I still get to do that in part, except now what I am delivering could be classed as way more valuable and precious.”
Whilst completing his training, Barry also completed Digital College training (Safeguarding for Children and Vulnerable Adults, Level 2) so he had further knowledge and understanding when required.
Throughout the recruitment process, we were on hand as “Team Barry” for reassurance, document completion and support with momentum. Barry started his new career with 24/7 Group by getting the keys to a shiny new car. We continue to work with him and his employer to ensure he thrives in his new environment.
“We understand the value that those with extended experience can bring to the table,” said Donna Rowley, Operations Manager 24x7 Group Staffordshire. “When parents and teachers trust you to provide specialist education transport for their children and young people, particularly those with special educational needs, it’s important that our drivers have the right attitude and empathy to deliver the best possible service. I’m sure Barry will have a great second career with us!”
At Jobs 22, our support doesn’t end when a new job contract is signed. The Jobs 22 approach offers continued services to participants beyond their start date so employers can trust their new employee is supported with everything they need to deliver in their new role. We're focused on our participants 'long-term success, which has a huge positive impact on local employers, partners, and the community beyond.
"Being in one job for so long, you do get stuck into a way of working, which may not be able to fit new working practises, and I was worried about learning new skills at my age, but with the help of the people at Jobs 22, Stafford branch, and my work coach Julian Goldstraw, we were able to work through things and come to a very happy result of me stating in a new job." - Barry, Restart Scheme Participant.