Carole had been unemployed before finding out about the course. While searching for jobs Carole found several Civil Service jobs that had become available and decided to join the Release Potential course in the hopes that it would help improve her chances of being successful. Though Carol has gone on to gain employment in a non-Civil Service position since finishing the course, we are really proud of the progression Carole has been able to make!

What were you doing before you started the programme?
I was recently unemployed before I started on the Release Potential programme. I was introduced to the course quite quickly after my period of unemployment commenced.

How did you find out about the training?
My Work Coach Linda introduced me to the Coaching & Mentoring Level 3 course which also aligned with potential Civil Service jobs that had become available.

Why did you decide to join?
The prospect of securing a role in Civil Service was great and I felt by attending I would stand a better chance of success. I also felt I would know how to navigate through the application process more effectively with the course content that was being delivered.

What did you think of the training? How did it help you?
It felt a little strange doing online – Zoom training. It did work though, and my course group were really interactive and chatty and we supported each other. The positive experience was very much based on the group being a diverse mix of age, gender, background, ethnicity etc so we all brought something different with our opinions.

Were there any barriers or obstacles you had to overcome?
Some of the elements associated with Zoom were a bit of a challenge as well as some of the new learning techniques. I was given support though and overcame some of these challenges along the way.

What are you doing now?
I’m working part time as an Import Administrator for Royal Cosmetics who have recently moved up from London.

What impact has the training had on your life?
I was really lucky to stay in a structured routine as the course was so close to when I had become unemployed. I felt ready to embark on something new and it was a really positive experience with new knowledge to secure.

What are your plans for the future?
I’m hoping my job will evolve and it will give me an opportunity to spend more time with my husband who is semi retired.

What would you say to someone who was thinking about doing the training but wasn’t sure?
If you’re doubtful, you should definitely consider giving it a go. There’s so much information to learn. If you find the training isn’t quite what you need, there are lots of other courses and information available that will match your needs.