When Matthew* started on the Restart Scheme in August 2021, he came with previous experience of picking, packing and general warehouse work. However, during a period of unemployment, he had lost some confidence.
His Coach, Kerry, encouraged him to attend a series of development sessions with a Skills Tutor. Following her advice, Matthew attended workshops on Preparation for Work, Job Search Methods, Interview Skills and even a Practice Interview.
Employer Engagement Officer, Batuhan Bursali, soon identified an excellent opportunity for Matthew as a Tram Driver for Midland Metro, with the organisation in the throes of expansion. Matthew showed great enthusiasm for this role and Batuhan arranged a mock assessment that he scored top marks in! Even though Matthew was unaware of his potential, with lots of encouragement and positive reinforcement from the team, as well as a little practice, his confidence flourished and grew significantly.
In early September, Matthew attended both a formal interview and assessment centre for the role and, due to the support he received, felt confident in his performance. We received extremely positive feedback from Midland Metro, who told us that Matthew was the best performing candidate and they have given him an offer of employment to commence on 4th October!
Matthew is a fantastic example of how the Restart Scheme can benefit our participants and how we can change people’s lives by offering them the right support. He is also a great example of someone who’s confidence had diminished and as such was setting his sights a little low. With encouragement, training and a lot of hard work, he has gone from working minimum wage jobs and surviving on benefits to a circa £30,000 per year career within a month!
About the Restart Scheme
The Restart Scheme has been commissioned by the Department for Work & Pensions and will give Universal Credit claimants who have been out of work for between 12 to 18 months enhanced, bespoke support to find work in the West Midlands.
The Scheme is part of the Government’s ‘Plan for Jobs’ and will break down employment barriers that could be holding them back from finding work. As a provider, Steps To Work are working with employers, local government and other partners to deliver tailored support for individuals.
*The name of this participant has been changed to safeguard their identity.
