Over the years, Paula has worked in a range of industries from cook to welder, cleaner to store assistant, and many more! However, due to some unfortunate ill health became unemployed and remained so for several years before joining the course. Wanting to do something positive and help increase her general quality of life, Paula decided to join the course in the hopes it would help make a difference. Now working as a till operator and shelf stacker, Paula is happy to be working again after so long without employment. Read the rest of her story below!

What were you doing before you started the programme?
About twenty years ago I qualified as a classically trained chef at Ashington College. This led to a job as a kitchen assistant and then cook at South Quay Care Home in Blyth, where I worked for seven years.
I’ve had a wide range of jobs in the past. I was a sugar boiler at Redheads sweet factory in Blyth where I used to make sherbert shandies, a painter and decorator, a spot welder at a lampshade factory, a cleaner, and a deli assistant at the Co-op.
I had been unemployed since 2017 due to ill-health caused by fibromyalgia. I was doing nothing before I joined the course.

How did you find out about the training?
From my Work Coach, Jules. She said she had come across a course that would be good for me. The frame of mind I was in, I’d do anything to get out of the house!

Why did you decide to join?
I just wanted to get out and do something positive. I don’t like sitting around. This was an opportunity that would keep me busy and could lead to something to help me have a better quality of life.

What did you think of the training? How did it help you?
It was brilliant. During the first two days, I was using cameras that I had never used before. Staff took their time to explain everything that was going on during the team activity. It was a bit overwhelming but fascinating at the same time. The tutors were brilliant. I learned how to use computers better which was enlightening. It was like, ‘wow’, I can do this now!

Were there any barriers or obstacles you had to overcome?
The course helped to build my confidence, and I became more positive than I had been. We all supported each other, and this made a difference.

What are you doing now?
I’m employed part-time by Heron Foods as a Stock Replenisher and Till Operator in Blyth. I love it! The people I work with are amazing.

What impact has the training had on your life?
I’m more confident, my computer skills have improved, my personality has developed, and I have a job again! I’m so happy I participated in the course. I did four weeks on work trial with Heron Foods before accepting my part-time position.

What are your plans for the future?
I would like stay working with Heron Foods. As for other things, I need some company in my life and am looking to adopt a dog. I’ve already met a nice dog and I think we’ll be a good match! I’m also planning on learning to drive and taking some lessons.

What would you say to someone who was thinking about doing the training but wasn’t sure?
It’s the best thing you’ll ever do! If I didn’t have a job, I would do it again! I met people on the course I really connected with, and we still keep in touch.