Joy’s journey back to work

After several months of unemployment, Joy Howarth from Huddersfield is back working in her desired sector thanks to a helping hand from the Restart Scheme.

Joy, 61, joined the Restart Scheme in December 2021.

Having worked as a care assistant in care homes for over 40 years, Joy possessed a wealth of experience and was keen to return to this line of work.

After meeting with her Employment Advisor, Bryony, it was clear that Joy felt her physical and mental health were significant barriers to obtaining employment.

Bryony signed Joy onto the In-Work mindset group session to ease her worries surrounding going back to work. They also completed various activities focusing on Joy’s strengths to rebuild her self-esteem.

It was this boost in confidence that spurred Joy on to start looking for jobs, and she soon secured a role as a Support Worker in the care sector.

Joy started her new role in January, and recently passed her probationary period with flying colours.

She believes her new job is perfect, and not only has her mental health improved, but her physical health has vastly improved too.

Joy said: “I love my job. It is the best job I have ever had. I am so happy that I was with Maximus, it has helped me to become a better version of myself.

“All the staff are so friendly. They helped me get back to work and are always on the end of the phone if you need anything.”

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