Getting practical work experience to support my journey

Following redundancy Sayed felt his skills were limiting his ability to find new work; however, when Sayed met Sarah, his dedicated Employment Specialist, he immediately felt like she listened to his situation and understood.  With her support, Sayed has now secured a voluntary position, whilst he continues his journey with Sarah to look for paid work.  Here he tells us about his positive experience in his own words…

I was working for a well-known Government department but then got made redundant in 2015.  At that time, I had no skills, so I took an Accounts Assistant course at North East London College and I was so pleased to have passed my AAT Level 3 course.

However, I still could not find a job.  Then I met Sarah at the NHS Mental Health Recovery Room.  Sarah was my Employment Specialist, who understood and listened to what I had to say.  We discussed which job roles that I might be able to do, and then Sarah helped me to prepare my CV and practice for a job interview.

After a few meetings, she helped me to secure a volunteer job at a leading high street pre-loved clothing and goods shop.  I now work every Tuesday at the Mill Hill store, where I work as a cashier.  I serve the customers and handle cash.  I also keep the shop neat and tidy and organise second hand clothes, books, music CDs, utensils and other household goods.

I really want to thank Sarah for all the hard work she did in helping me get the volunteer job.  As a result of her efforts, I will now get practical experience at a well-regarded charity shop, and I will hopefully go on to secure a paid job.  Thank you Sarah!