Paul came onto the Intensive Personalised Employment Support programme (IPES) hoping to rebuild his confidence and re-establish his purpose. Having been unemployed for three years, Paul was feeling lost, devalued and was starting to feel that his age was a barrier. As a result, his mental health and wellbeing was impacted tremendously.
“I had been out of work for some time and could not find a job through the Jobcentre. I was getting more depressed that I would not find another job in the aviation Sector. I was applying for jobs I knew I could do but was not even getting to the interview stage. I found myself doubting my abilities and was becoming quite introverted and losing interest in everything.”
Paul’s IPES key worker, Nikki, advised him to first prioritise his health and wellbeing before looking for work. Nikki referred Paul for counselling sessions and online health and work focused group sessions called Health at Home, delivered by Health 2 Employment (H2E) health professionals. Paul was also referred to a H2E occupational health nurse for a health assessment. He was provided with a health action plan which included recommendations to help him progress towards sustainable employment. Paul was able to share the plan with his GP to get the specialist support he needed.
“I mentioned I had various health problems that would exclude me from doing certain types of work. Nikki arranged for me to speak to an occupational health nurse about my issues. The report they put together resulted in my doctor inviting me in to discuss my problems which lead to numerous referrals to specialists.”
After a year of focusing on his health, Paul was feeling himself again, emotionally, and physically. This was evident in his regained confidence and positive outlook. Paul was ready to focus more on finding a new job.
“After a discussion with Nikki, I was helped to consolidate my CV, which I have been using when applying for work. Nikki’s frequent phone calls were a great help to keep me motivated and positive even when my job applications were unsuccessful and I felt like a failure.”
With the switch in focus to finding employment, Paul was able the get the guidance he needed to update his CV, complete job applications and to be better prepared for interviews. After much persistence in his search, Paul was offered a job as a Compliance Monitoring Manager, using all the skills and expertise he feared he’d never use again.
“I know without Nikki’s help I might not have had the confidence to apply for the job let alone be successful in securing the position. I feel I am very lucky to have had Nikki’s support and guidance over this very traumatic time in my life. She is a very caring person and passionate about her job assisting people through difficult times, instilling confidence and self-esteem.”
Paul’s key worker Nikki had the following to say about Paul’s journey back into employment:
“It has been a pleasure sharing Paul’s journey back into work. Paul is a skilled engineer and has decades of specialised work history. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, he found himself at a standstill not knowing which way to turn. He needed guidance and support to get him back on track and I am so pleased I could help him do this. Along with my colleagues at Health 2 Employment and Shaw Trust, Paul is back to his best and doing what he loves”
We wish Paul all the best in his new job as a compliance monitoring manager.
What is IPES?
IPES is a voluntary programme that supports people with disabilities and complex barriers into work. IPES offers a holistic approach focusing on more than just getting a job. It looks at areas affecting clients including their ability to work, their family, financial or personal circumstances. Click here to find out more.