Before joining the training with Release Potential, Sonia didn’t know much about the Civil Service, but really wanted to learn something new to help support her job searching. So when Sonia’s Work Coach recommended the course, she knew it was the right choice to make. Being provided support by the Release Potential team, Sonia ws able to learn about Civil Service and what to expect with the application process. Sonia now hopes to secure a position within the Civil Service, and we wish her the best of luck with her journey!

What were you doing before you started the programme?
I had been unemployed for just under a year before joining the Release Potential programme.

How did you find out about the training?
My Work Coach recommended the Release Potential Civil Service course during a visit to the Job Centre.

Why did you decide to join?
I felt I really wanted to make a start with some new learning and felt the course would be a good start to acquiring new information that would support me in my job search. I had limited knowledge around Civil Service and the types of jobs available, before I started the course.

What did you think of the training? How did it help you?
I had no idea of what the Civil Service process would look like and the course shared loads of details with me about this. I was given so much support my tutor Jaleesa, and I learnt so many new things as well as finding out about the application process, behaviour statements, different types of interviews and what to expect.

Were there any barriers or obstacles you had to overcome?
No real barriers to overcome.

What are you doing now?
I’m working as an Interpreter for Absolute Translation where I am translating medical information from Kurdish into English.

What impact has the training had on your life?
The training helped me learnt loads of information around what Civil Service processes look like and what the course content covers. I feel more confident and knowledgable than ever and I have received lots of support in preparing me for my pending interview for a Civil Service role. I haven’t had an interview for quite some time.

What are your plans for the future?
I’d love to secure a role within the Civil Service that will offer long term prospects.

What would you say to someone who was thinking about doing the training but wasn’t sure?
I would encourage them to join. It’s a great way of learning new things with lots of positive support. It’s also a great starting point to amend and update your own personal information to know your approach is correct and will give you a better chance for success.