James

Fifty-five-year-old James faced a number of barriers whilst trying to get back into work. In constant pain due to musculo-skeletal issues, he could no longer carry out his physical work as a painter and decorator. As a result he was unemployed for over 10 years and was claiming Employment and Support Allowance.

The Working Matters Programme initiative brought James the change he needed, supporting him with a range of holistic approaches including condition management and alternative therapies, to help alleviate his pain and assist with daily living.

The Case Worker also referred him to a Health Practitioner at ‘The Wellness Hub’ in Airdrie for additional support. Coupled with this, James would regularly attend 1:1’s, advice and guidance, personal development support, goal setting and progression with his Case Worker.
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After additional support, advice and guidance at Airdrie’s Wellness Hub through his care worker the best solution for James was to change his career path. After discussions he decided that he would like to work with disadvantaged and vulnerable clients to increase their life chances.
Despite lacking the right qualifications for this career change, James engaged in a variety of personal development and training opportunities relevant to his new career aspirations within the Health and Social Care Sector.

He successfully achieved qualifications in REHIS Food Hygiene, First Aid, Health & Safety, and was one of the first service users to successfully complete the SQA Employability Award.
Having made huge progress, James then focussed on his CV writing and employability skills. The Case Worker organised an Information session with one of the local Support Service Employers and he secured both an interview and job offer.
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James has since gained employment as a Support Worker with a large North Lanarkshire-based company and is now working towards completing his SVQ Level 3 in Health and Social Care.