Having been made reduntant after working in a long term position, Dawn was in need of a new job. Dawn was told about the training with Release Potential via her Work Coach and after discovering some of the many posibilities of the Civil Service, knew it was what she needed to help her gain employment. During her time on the course, Dawn found her confidence to grow, and gained insight into making applications within the Civil Service. Using this information and new found confidence, Dawn is now working as a Transport Clerk, and we wish her the very best in the new position!

What were you doing before you started the programme?
I had been made redundant after working for the same employer for 25 years and found myself unemployed.

How did you find out about the training?
My Work Coach Sam told me about the learning opportunities available with Release Potential when I went for an appointment at the Job Centre.

Why did you decide to join?
I listened to the course details that told me about the opportunity to learn more about the Civil Service and what would be involved in the course. The possibility of becoming a Work Coach or something else within the Civil Service appealed to me, and I liked the thought of the potential jobs available, and also what I could learn that would help me gain employment.

What did you think of the training? How did it help you?
By being on the training my confidence was really boosted. I also learnt how to use Zoom which I hadn’t done before. My tutor Michael really supported me with this. I got lots more insight around dealing with the public and new approaches to making applications and the steps involved in this which was quite an eye opener.

Were there any barriers or obstacles you had to overcome?
Not really any barriers. For anything that appeared to be a challenge during the course, Michael always provided support and guidance to resolve it.

What are you doing now?
I’m working as a Transport Clerk for a logistics provider.

What impact has the training had on your life?
The training definitely gave me lots more confidence. It showed me I could push myself and keep positive around everything being achievable if I put my mind to it.

What are your plans for the future?
Not sure of my plans longer term. I’m just happy where I am for now.

What would you say to someone who was thinking about doing the training but wasn’t sure?
I would say to definitely go ahead and do it. It’s a great experience to be with other people in a similar situation to you, an opportunity to overcome any fear you may have and push yourself whilst doing some learning along the way which is an added benefit.