Pearl celebrates new job after 20 years out of work
Pearl had health problems and lacked confidence, but has found work and turned her life around after being referred to the Work Programme.
They have given me my confidence back which I lost for a long time, and I am so grateful for this opportunity.
Pearl Buckeridge, from Coventry, barely left her house for 3 years as a result of health problems and a severe lack of confidence.
But since being referred to the Work Programme with Inspire 2 Independence (i2i), part of Serco’s network of welfare-to-work providers, she has managed to turn her life around.
Pearl is now enjoying a part-time telesales job at Direct Response Security, and despite never having worked in telesales previously, she managed to secure her first lead for the company on day one.
Pearl had previously received Incapacity Benefit due to major health issues affecting her spine. Personal issues had also affected her self-esteem.
Pearl benefited from one-to-one coaching and a thorough preparation for work. She was also offered financial advice through a partner organisation, which established Pearl would be better off in work, with working tax credits and budgeting advice.
i2i Coventry’s Centre Manager, Paul McCaughan said:
Once we began to work with Pearl, she progressed quickly – beyond her own expectations. She thoroughly deserves this opportunity. Everyone is determined to ensure that this is a further step on a continuing journey for Pearl that will see her achieve all that she wants to achieve.
Pearl, 47, said:
i2i have given me my confidence back which I lost for a long time, and I am so grateful for this opportunity.
After 20 years of being unemployed, Pearl was naturally apprehensive about her first day in her new job.
I was a bit nervous on my first day, but getting my first lead really helped to calm the nerves and I actually really enjoyed it. I said 2013 was going to be my year, and it already has been!