Being unemployed before starting the course, Riiri decided to take part in the course to help improve her chances of obtaining better opportunities and finding a good job. During the course, Riiri found that her confidence was boosted, especially with using a computer. Riiri is now employed as a Mental Health Support worker for the NHS and we wish her the best with her role and the future!

What were you doing before you started the programme?
After completing three years of accountancy training, I worked in the sector for three years. I then moved on to become a Youth Worker for St Basils in Digbeth, helping 16–25-year-olds develop their confidence, skills and opportunities, a role which I did for ten years. I was then a Mental Health Worker for the NHS for five years. My daughter has Downe’s Syndrome, and I have also worked hard to support her. A lot of my focus has been to care for her. She was difficult to bring up, but I have done my best and she is doing well now. I had some ‘on-off’ jobs but was unemployed before I started the course with Release Potential.

How did you find out about the training?
From my Work Coach, Cyrus at Sandwell Job Centre. He spoke to me about potentially working for the Civil Service, encouraging me to consider this route as an option to get back into work.

Why did you decide to join?
I believe taking part in training can help improve your chances of obtaining better opportunities, so I decided to give it a try. I thought it could help me to find a good job.

What did you think of the training? How did it help you?
The training was brilliant! My tutor, Owen was really good! The course taught me how to deal with difficult types of situations you can come across at work. I learned new things, obtained some qualifications, and gained more confidence using a computer. The course also helped me with the process of how to apply for Civil Service roles. Job vacancies were sent to us regularly to consider applying for, I applied for some but decided to return to working for the NHS.

Were there any barriers or obstacles you had to overcome?
I’m not so good with computers, so taking part in the course helped improve my confidence using technology. I had spent a long time looking after my child and felt ready to return to work again as she has made so much progress.

What are you doing now?
I’m employed as a Mental Health Support Worker for the Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. My role involves supporting people with a variety of mental health needs, keeping them safe and maintaining records. No day is the same. I always feel elated when somebody gets better, can be discharged, and return home again.

What impact has the training had on your life?
Taking the course has been a huge confidence builder and helped get me ready for work again. Without the training I also wouldn’t know how to apply for Civil Service jobs. I feel I’m better equipped now.

What are your plans for the future?
I’m enjoying my current role. I need to earn a living. We are all living in difficult times with the increases in the cost of living, but I’m keeping going. In the future I would like to work in a Civil Service role.

What would you say to someone who was thinking about doing the training but wasn’t sure?
It works, be persistent and don’t give up!