Nick’s Journey – from redundancy to rebuilding confidence and employment
Introduction
Nick, in his early fifties, joined the Restart Scheme in Wellingborough after being made redundant in 2022. With over 20 years of experience as a machine operative in plastic moulding and production, he faced significant challenges when he joined the scheme, including severe mental health, drug use, and physical health issues.
Challenges
At the beginning of his journey, Nick felt nervous and out of his comfort zone. Reflecting on that time, he said: “I just didn’t know what was happening or what was going to happen.”
He was dealing with immense anxiety, a lack of confidence, and a reluctance to try new things. Nick was hesitant to leave his home, unwilling to consider roles outside his previous experience, and sceptical about whether the Restart Scheme would help, given his prior unsuccessful attempts with similar programmes. Nick also lacked basic employability skills, including CV writing and job application navigation.
Support Provided
Nick’s Employment Coach, Stephanie, worked with him to build trust and create a safe space for vulnerability. The comprehensive support he received came from several AKG (UK) companies, of which Jobs 22 is one, who deliver the Restart Scheme across East Central England, along with their valued delivery partners, on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions:
Intuitive Thinking Skills: Nick attended the Skills Tu Life and Skills Tu Employment courses led by Ran. These courses focused on building resilience, self-determination, and employability skills, helping him take his first steps toward personal and professional growth.
Learn Plus Us: Nick joined confidence-building workshops that reshaped his mindset and helped him see challenges as opportunities.
Healthfind: After numerous discussions, Nick accepted a referral to Healthfind and began working with Daniella to address his mental health challenges, which proved transformative.
Employability Training: Stephanie, along with Jo, an Employer Services Consultant, guided Nick through CV building, IT skills, job applications, and interview preparation. Nick also attended group workshops, a community café, and a jobs fair, helping him expand his opportunities.
Daylight Centre: Visits to this local support hub provided personal interventions and practical assistance for Nick’s daily life.
Stephanie noted that while Nick was initially reluctant to change, his determination to improve and willingness to embrace new ideas grew over time. "Once Nick accepted mental health support, the difference in his character was incredible," she shared.
Adding: “Daniella at Healthfind must take huge credit for Nick’s progress. Together they tackled some deep-rooted trauma that had been holding him back. This unlocked the opportunity for all the other support to get Nick to a place where he was ready for employment.”
Outcome
Through perseverance and the holistic support provided, Nick experienced a remarkable transformation. His anxiety reduced significantly, he gained confidence, and he took a more positive outlook on life. Nick explained: “Yes, absolutely, the support made a huge difference. My confidence has built massively, and my anxiety is so much better. Now, I look at things in a different way.”
The culmination of his journey was securing a role as an industrial cleaner, which gave him a routine, a purpose, and a renewed sense of self. He said, “I feel more confident, like things are on the up. I feel like I could do any role moving forward.”
Nick has also significantly reduced his drug use and is no longer reliant on medication, marking an incredible step forward in his overall wellbeing.
Reflection
Nick’s journey highlights how patience, commitment, and collaboration can help overcome even the most challenging needs. His advice to others starting on the Restart Scheme is simple: “Definitely go for it. It’ll help sort you out – and gets you on the right path.”
In his closing words, Nick shared this heartfelt message: “100% highly recommended. Have trust that they just want to help. I’m so glad I did! Thank you for listening to me and taking time to support me, even when I made it difficult for you.”
Stephanie reflected on his success, saying: “I am proud of how far Nick has come. His journey shows how our services, combined with determination, can truly transform lives.”
Nick is now looking forward to the future with confidence, embracing opportunities and challenges with a newfound optimism.