Success Story
Who
Sheila Ashworth, 54, had been unemployed since 1970 due to agoraphobia - a health condition linked to panic attacks which leaves the sufferer afraid of public places and open spaces.How did it happen?
Following treatment to overcome this with a health specialist, Sheila was referred to the Liverpool JET Service - an information, advice and guidance service for local people, to help them into training or job opportunities across the region.
Following a series of consultations, advisors identified that Sheila spent the last 15 years caring for her parents, as well as her sister who had mental health problems.
With a newly discovered set of transferable skills, Sheila was referred to a Career in Care event run by The People Pool - a service which links local employers with individuals seeking work.
Shortly after, she began an LSC funded priority sector Routeway Programme, aimed at the care services sector.
Sheila completed her pre-employment accredited training qualification CIEH Level 2 in a variety of sector areas including Health and Safety in Health and Social Care, through Liverpool City Council's Adult Learning Service (ALS.)
Since her successful completion of all the employer led training courses, Sheila has started work at Gracefield Care Home in Everton.
What they say
She said: "I love my new job and feel so grateful to all the people and organisations which have helped me to get here. Without the training and support that I received, I'm sure I would not be where I am today.
It's not just about learning new skills, but also discovering skills that you already have, and finding out where they can lead you in the world of work."
What we say
Liverpool JET Service is Liverpool City Council's own Neighbourhood Employment Service for Liverpool Residents. The People Pool and the Employment Programme Team both form part of the wider JET Service
Nick Boston, team leader of the Neighbourhood Employment Service, said: ""Identifying and improving skills is a great way for the long-term unemployed to regain confidence and get back into employment.
"Sheila's success is a classic example of how much skills training can improve and bolster job prospects.
Sheila is now enrolled on progression training to complete a NVQ level 2 in Health and Social Care via the LSC's Train to Gain programme.
Paul Tinsley, Partnership Director from LSC Greater Merseyside, said: Liverpool JET Service's success with people like Sheila is testament to the positive effect training can have.
"There are obvious benefits to the individuals doing the training, but it also reaps benefits to the businesses they work for. Keeping staff current and up to date is an essential part of preparing businesses for future growth."
More Information
Businesses wanting to know how to access LSC funding should visit www.allmerseyside.net or contact Business Link advisors on 0845 00 66 888. Individuals should contact Next Step on 0800 434 6129.
