From feeling like he was failing to getting a job he loves!

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Aarif was struggling to get out of bed in the morning, and the more he tried to get his life back, the more he felt he was failing.  He decided to take things one step at a time – seeking support through counselling, then a course of CBT, which eventually led him to find Twining Enterprise.  Through the dedicated support of his Employment Specialist Dina, Aarif found a job he loves!  Here, Aarif talks to Twining Enterprise about his recovery journey…

What was your life like before finding Twining Enterprise?

I was struggling to get out of bed, I couldn’t get to appointments on time, my work life and personal relationships kept deteriorating. I was constantly feeling overwhelmed, stressed and anxious.

I got into this place over a period of two years. During this time, the long-term relationship with my partner ended and I lost my job.

The more I was rushing to get back to my former life, the more I was failing.

What steps did you take to improve?

I decided to take things one step at a time.

I started with counselling, which allowed me to reconcile the past. Afterwards, I did a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) course, which brought me practical ways of breaking vicious circles.

At the end of the CBT course, I felt ready to get back into work. Having previously never been out of employment due to health reasons and for a lengthy period of time, I wasn’t sure where to start. This is when I got put in touch with Dina from Twining Enterprise.

Dina listened to me through an initial discovery period where I shared details about my background, current situation and future aspirations. After this, Dina put together a tailored plan and kept me at pace through the steps, while continuously pointing out my strengths and boosting my confidence. Dina helped me produce an up-to-date CV and cover letter, proposed possible potential employers and conducted mock interviews.

What’s happening in your life now?

As a result, I got a job in the field I was interested in and I passed my probation period successfully. I have now got a good reputation at the company and I am looking to get a promotion in the coming year.

I have also managed to rebuild the routines in my life and I have a good work-life balance. Ultimately, I feel like I am myself again.

 

Please note - This charitable project is funded by the European Social Fund and The National Lottery Community Fund.

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