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“Due to the pandemic, this was the first time in my life that I had been without a job.

I wasn’t able to see my family and losing my job meant I was experiencing financial difficulties. I was in a really bad place and turned to drinking more and therefore isolating myself further. My self esteem and confidence was knocked and I was constantly alone and crying.

I was referred by my work coach to join the Progressing into Work course at NOAH Academy.

To start with, I found the course very emotional as I bonded with others who were experiencing the same thing as me. We spent a lot of our time sharing our stories and getting to know each other, it was nice to have some human interaction again.

The tutor was very supportive and patient with us and by the end of the course, I felt more confident and ready to look for work.

I was also told about Working Solutions which had a Job Club run by NOAH to support us further after the course. I was a little apprehensive and thought that it would be too much, but after meeting Nicky I was put at ease.

I joined with some friends that I had made on the course and we all encouraged each other to attend together. The atmosphere was relaxed and friendly, and I found that my confidence grew the more I attended.

I was attending Job Club for around a month, when I realised that I was always looking for the same types of jobs. However, I decided that I wanted to use my skills elsewhere. I was supported with applying for a job as an Assistant in a Hair Salon and couldn’t believe it when I secured the job!

The course and Working Solutions prepared me for a complete change in my career!

I am happy now and have a more positive outlook on life.

Lorraine (Working Solutions & Progressing into Work)