How did you feel about your situation prior to the programme?
“I felt at a void in my life and didn’t know what I wanted to do. I lacked motivation.
I was diagnosed with Asperger’s in 2016. I had a wide range of work experience and a long employment history, but I had fallen out of jobs due to a lack of support and struggles with communication.
This lead to a lack of confidence and motivation to return to paid employment."
What were your feelings about work before joining Community Connections?
“I couldn’t job search on my own and needed some direction. I was referred to the programme from Heads Up. I needed some help and skills to look for work.
How has Community Connections helped you?
“It has helped me a great deal. I have been referred to different courses and it has given me the confidence and abilities to start looking for a job.
I have slowly built my confidence and improved my ICT skills. I know what direction I want to go in and I now feel ready to look for a part time job.”
What are your circumstances now?
I am completing an Employability Skills course, which is giving me the confidence to return to work. I am also looking to start a Mental Health and Wellbeing course.
I now have the skills to independently job search - I have an up-to-date CV and cover letter template.
I have learnt how to use Indeed and I am now able to apply for jobs independently. I have also been referred to Realise Futures Supported Employment programme to look for paid work.
How do you feel about your life now?
“I now focus on the positives rather than the negatives.
I hope to gain employment in the next few months and I feel a lot more confident now with job searching skills and would feel more confident to go to an interview.
I have had a wonderful time on the programme and you have helped me so much.”
