Port Talbot resident Julia Thomas life took a dramatic downturn when she suffered both a stroke and a brain haemorrhage. Julia had to leave her job and she spent the next two years recovering. Aged 64, Julia thought that she had no chance of getting another job and understandably, felt anxious and her confidence was on the floor. Julia felt both age and concerns around her health would hold her back. Not wishing to return to her previous job, Julia was hoping for a part time job that she could really enjoy.
Julia contacted the Neath Port Talbot Workways+ team, part of NPT Employability.
Workways+ assigned Employer Liaison Officer, Charlie Fulner, to work with Julia on a one to one basis. Firstly, Charlie set to work helping Julia get her confidence back and dispel the thought that she was too old to work. Charlie suggested a part time paid work placement to help Julia get back into a work environment and to build her confidence. A work placement is a provision where Workways+ reimburse the employer for the employee’s wages.
A placement was set up at Ty Nant Cat Sanctuary. Julia has a passion for animals and she had volunteered there before, so she was thrilled to be able to carry out a more comprehensive role and earn a wage. During the work placement, Charlie arranged IT skills training for Julia, funded by Workways+.
Next, Charlie started exploring permanent employment options. Julia said she would like to work in care and Charlie set about finding suitable opportunities. Neath Port Talbot Council co-ordinate ‘Personal Assistant’ vacancies to support people in the community. Julia thought a PA position was a wonderful opportunity to help others needing day to day support. Charlie arranged First Aid Training as this would be of benefit to Julia in a PA role. Charlie helped Julia with the job application and provided interview practice. To everyone’s delight Julia was successful and is now employed as a part time PA.
Julia said, “I was on rock bottom, my self-belief shattered. Charlie was the one who believed in me and got me going again. I can’t thank Workways+ and Charlie enough for the wonderful support they have given me. I would say to anyone that is getting on in age or has faced ill health, don’t give up, give Workways+ a call”.
For help to get funded training, employment or paid work experience contact your local Workways+ office. If you are interested in working as a PA and would like support in applying then please give Neath Port Talbot Workways+ a call 01639 684250.
Workways+ is part funded by the European Social Fund through the Welsh Government.