Case Studies
Opening a little door for J.
J.A. first heard about the REBOOT project and Signpost through the Job Centre, but they told her the project had ended. However, she gave us a call, and luckily, one place was available, as one participant had withdrawn.
J. was thrilled and popped into Signpost the next day. After completing some forms, she began her online Basic First Aid course immediately.
After a few days, she came to Signpost to collect her certificate. With a big grin on her face, and whilst the certificate was being laminated, she said:
“You have no idea how much this means to me. It is like a little door has opened up and this door will open more doors subsequently, bigger doors! I feel more confident and inspired to forge ahead. Thank you so much!”
J. was told at the school where she works part-time that she needed a First Aid certificate if she would like to apply to work there full-time. J. is now updating her CV and looking forward to other opportunities coming her way. She is also researching to see what other qualifications she could need to advance her career within the school where she currently works.
N's Journey
N. had been using Signpost’s facilities for some time. She was popular because she was personable and mindful of others’ needs. N. was also a determined and disciplined job seeker who took any employment opportunity.
At one point she secured a trial week with a small manufacturer. After the week there was no job, and an unscrupulous employer was using job-seeking hopefuls as a cheap labour force. N. was demoralised by this, and Signpost staff and volunteers supported her through this disappointment.
She continued her vigorous job-seeking efforts but it was clear to us that she was beginning to flag. Later N. sustained a knee injury which left her unable to stand for long periods – as her work was in manufacturing, this was another significant setback.
As time moved on and N. was unable to find work, she was unable to pay her rent and was evicted from her home. Homeless for the first time, N. moved into sheltered accommodation. This was a traumatic experience for her as she had little experience of drug dealing and ex-offenders.
Throughout this difficult time N. used Signpost as it was originally intended; deriving personal support to help her with surviving the challenges she faced and using the equipment and expertise placed at her disposal to address her employment and personal problems.
Happily, N. had found a job with a manufacturer where she can sit down and enjoy the work. Her home life has settled down and she is on the way to finding somewhere better to live.
N. agrees that Signpost was the only thing standing between her and debilitating depression. Signpost’s support was influential in moving her to “a better place.”
Feedback
Here are a few words from our Beneficiaries who have used our services.
