We met Calvin when he began visiting one of the local foodbanks, where we attend a weekly drop in to engage with local community members. At that time, Calvin was struggling with his mental health, lacked confidence, and found it challenging to use public transport due to anxiety. He wasn't engaging in any regular activities and felt isolated, which had a significant impact on his mood.

Calvin and his adviser Sophie began working together to develop a personalised action plan using the tool Outcomes Star to assess the areas of his life that were going well and identify where further support was needed. It was clear that Calvin needed activities to fill his time to prevent isolation and keep his mental health stable. While his mental health was generally okay, he experienced low moods when his days lacked structure, something which he wanted to improve.

One of Calvin's primary barriers was his inability to use public transport unless he was already familiar with the journey, which further limited his opportunities. To address this, we started by arranging regular appointments and exploring activities in his local area. We provided financial support for bus fares to enable him to attend fishing sessions—a passion of his—and offered ongoing assistance to help him build confidence around public transport. This included planning bus routes, meeting him at bus stops, and gradually increasing his independence.

Additionally, we utilised our flexible fund for both a fishing license and rod license, ensuring that Calvin could pursue his interest in fishing regularly. As a result, his confidence grew, and he now takes two buses independently to reach the lake where he enjoys fishing.

With this tailored support, Calvin's life has undergone a significant transformation. He now volunteers regularly at the foodbank on Wednesdays and Fridays, welcoming service users by making coffees and toasties, and helping them feel at ease. His confidence has flourished, and he's now actively looking for work while continuing his volunteer commitments.

Calvin has also started building a YouTube channel focused on fishing tutorials and fish breeding—a long-term aspiration of his. He is working towards creating a portfolio showcasing how to prep and build rigs, and his sense of achievement in this area is clear.

Overall, Calvin has gone from having an unstructured, isolated life to one filled with volunteering, fishing, family time, and social connections with renewed hopes for his future. His journey is a testament to how dedicated support can make a profound impact, and his personal growth highlights the effectiveness of our team's approach in fostering employability and well-being.

"I am feeling a lot better. I am enjoying my hobbies and life."

When Gillian first approached Employability Durham, she was at a crossroads in her life. She was dealing with low confidence after leaving a career she had been in for 32 years due to ill health and caring responsibilities for her mother. On top of this, she didn't have a CV and was unaware of potential benefit entitlements. Gillian was unsure about her career options and what the future held, which is where we stepped into help.

Gillian's adviser Susan, worked with her to identify her strengths and a potential career path by creating an action plan and setting goals using the Outcomes Star tool. They then created a CV that highlighted a whole host of qualities and transferable skills Gillian had. With Susan's guidance, Gillian was able to apply for a volunteer role at a local hospice which she now volunteers at on a weekly basis. This has significantly boosted her self-confidence and employability skills, which she can continue to build on and develop when ready to return to paid employment.

Susan also helped Gillian by completing a 'better off calculation' - a tool to check benefit entitlement and highlight any differences that a change in circumstances might trigger. This identified that she was eligible to apply for Universal Credit - something which she was previously unaware of as she believed she wouldn't be eligible due to her partner's part-time income. As a result, Gillian is now in receipt of this, and it has brought much-needed financial stability at home. 

With Employability Durham's help, Gillian now has a more positive outlook on her future and is in a much better place to move forward with her employment journey. She is dedicated to developing her self-confidence through her new volunteering role which is helping her prepare for potential future employment - something which we will support her with when the time is right.

"Susan has really helped me with my confidence and guidance after being unemployed due to life circumstances. I didn't know where to start after working with the same employer since leaving college. Her help has been invaluable."

At the time Kimberley contacted Employability Durham, she was juggling multiple responsibilities. As a single mother to children ranging from 4 to 20 years old, and as a caregiver for her father, she was also dealing with her own mental health challenges. Despite these obstacles, Kimberley was eager to make a career shift and was already on her way, having started a Level 2 Dog Grooming course. However, she needed further support to complete the course and to explore opportunities for further training and experience in the field.

To help Kimberley achieve her goals, adviser Debbie worked closely with her to build confidence and identify practical steps forward, together, they explored suitable courses for her career aspirations. Although Kimberley was interested in volunteering at a dog grooming business, housing issues initially delayed this. However, with the continued support of Debbie who assisted her in completing a housing application, she was able to move forward and complete her Level 2 course with distinction.

Kimberley's journey wasn't one she could have easily managed alone but support from her adviser, she was able to navigate her way through difficult situations and is now well on her way to achieving her career goals.

"Take that first step; access the support, and the rest will follow."

Michael approached Employability Durham after suffering a serious accident that prevented him from continuing as a chef. Having spent years working in the kitchen, the sudden change left him unsure of his next steps. With no clear direction, Michael sought guidance on how to transition into a new career.

Michael's adviser Emma offered 1:1 tailored support assisting him to explore his options. Through meaningful discussions, they uncovered Michael's interests and passions, shifting the focus towards roles that would make the best use of his transferable skills. Together, they were able to identify key strengths such as time management, attention to detail, and working in fast-paced environments—skills Michael had perfected as a chef.

Recognising a new path in the transport industry, Emma helped Michael tailor his CV to reflect his capabilities beyond the kitchen and a new personal statement was crafted to focus on driving roles. Emma helped Michael enrol on a first aid and confidence building course to ensure he would be ready for work when the time came. Emma also helped him prepare for interviews, particularly addressing how to explain his career gap and his shift in industries.

After becoming aware of opportunities available at Stanley Travel Emma spoke with Michael who agreed to put himself forward for an interview, Employability Durham's Flexible Fund was able to cover the cost of the medical exam required for the driving role, providing crucial financial support that Michael couldn't have managed on his own.

Emma's support, combined with Michael's belief and determination has resulted in him securing a position with Stanley Travel. He is currently working towards completing the necessary medical and training requirements for the role. With a newfound direction and confidence, Michael is excited about the future, transitioning into a career he had never imagined possible.

"Employability Durham gave the confidence and the tools to get back into the workplace after 3 years out after accident. Emma is very positive and helpful. Thank you so much".

When Stewart was first referred into Employability Durham by his Job Centre work coach he was seeking assistance to regain his confidence, improve his skills, and explore suitable employment opportunities that aligned with his health needs.

Adviser Emma worked closely with Stewart to identify barriers that were holding him back with an aim to set realistic goals that would help him on his journey back to work. This included discussing potential areas for upskilling and retraining. Together, they explored volunteering options as a stepping stone to paid employment.

Emma supported Stewart to arrange a meeting with Durham County Council's volunteer team which led to him securing a volunteer role at Stanley Leisure Centre. She also suggested that Stewart join a weekly walking group to help with social interaction and physical well-being. On top of this, both Emma and Stewart were able to identify and access some courses for him to complete such as Confidence Building, First Aid and Food Safety.

Stewart will continue receiving support while engaging in training and volunteering activities. The long-term goal is for him to build his confidence and skill set, ultimately securing paid employment. With ongoing guidance and commitment, Stewart's future is bright as he transitions back into the workforce.

"I was referred to Employability Durham by my work coach who spoke highly of the organisation at first I was a bit apprehensive as have done other courses & been referred to other people which hasn't been that great for myself but I'm pleased I took the chance & met up with my advisor Emma she made me feel welcome & at ease straight away. We spoke about any support groups that might be helpful to myself & also looked into volunteering roles & after the first couple of meetings she has got me on courses which will be helpful in the long term it feels like she understands what I'm hoping to achieve & how it could be achieved & supported along the way. We also talked about what my ideal long term goal would be & how it could be helped & supported along the way. It finally feels like I'm been listened to & getting somewhere after the first couple of meetings & looking at the bigger picture of what I want to achieve. Personally anyone thinking is this right for me or will it be worth it definitely is take the chance it's well worth it even after my first meeting with Emma & hearing about all the support they can offer I left feeling positive."

Tracey approached Employability Durham struggling with her mental health. She faced significant challenges, such as an overwhelming fear of leaving her house, preventing her from accessing essential services such has her local GP and dentist—appointments she had neglected for several years.

To help Tracey's journey towards overcoming these barriers, adviser Claire focused on building a trusting and professional relationship, something which was crucial for understanding Tracey's specific needs to progress. Through open conversations, they identified that Tracey wanted to build trust and communication, so Claire started with regular phone calls to establish comfort and routine in the hope to eventually progress to face to face appointments. Once Tracey was ready to do so, Claire planned appointments with Tracey that took place in her safe place - her allotment which allowed her to feel secure and in control.

Together, they then developed a step-by-step approach to gradually increase Tracey's confidence and encouraged her to engage in activities outside her home. They also discussed ideas for potential self-employment opportunities that aligned with Tracey's interests and skills. Additionally, Claire also provided information about benefits and engaging with DWP to support Tracey in navigating her financial situation.

Reflecting on Tracey's time with Employability Durham, the progress she has made has been remarkable. Through the support provided by adviser Claire, she has significantly improved her confidence and outlook on life. She is now able to attend local garden centres and markets with friends, which has allowed her to build social connections and enjoy community life. She has also expressed interest in establishing a small gardening round in her local area, enabling her to contribute to her well-being while generating a potential source of income.