New year, new job
New year brings a new start for Debbie
Debbie Ryder, from Chesterfield, who lost her job due to the pandemic, has thanked the Restart Scheme for supporting her back into work.
Debbie, 43, had been unemployed for 13 months when she was referred to the Restart Scheme in September 2021.
Debbie previously worked as an administrator but was made redundant in 2020.
Following her redundancy, Debbie’s confidence took a huge hit. As a single parent, Debbie faced numerous other difficulties and personal challenges during the pandemic. This all had a big knock-on effect on Debbie’s belief in herself.
Debbie’s Restart Scheme Employment Advisor Lucy provided Debbie with the tailored support she needed to move forward.
In Derbyshire, Maximus UK is working with its partners Reed In Partnership to deliver the Restart Scheme.
When Debbie first met with Lucy, she was anxious, nervous, and admitted that she had struggled with the prospect of even attending. Lucy suggested Debbie book onto a self-confidence virtual course.
During the course, Debbie found that turning her camera on and participating with other people she didn’t know was a challenge, but Debbie joined in and successfully completed the course. This immediately boosted her self-confidence.
Debbie took part in a mock interview session with Lucy and they discussed success stories from her previous work life, as well as personal accomplishments.
Debbie met with Reed In Partnership Recruitment Manager Natalie, who clarified just how valuable her years of administration experience was, and how her level of expertise was in high demand across various sectors.
Debbie and Natalie agreed to focus on administration roles and Natalie identified the right types of roles to suit Debbie’s circumstances and would fit around her home life.
Debbie was then put forward for a number of roles, including an administrator role at a marketing company.
The interview was a great success and Debbie was offered the role on the spot. Debbie started her new job in January.
Debbie said: “Thank you to the Restart Scheme for all of your help and support in getting me a job! All of the team are welcoming, friendly and supportive. Special thanks to Natalie for putting me forward for the job that was the best fit for me. And an even bigger special thanks to my Employment Advisor Lucy. Lucy put me at ease right from the start, supported me in my job search and skills and gave me the biggest confidence boosts when I needed them. She has been the best Employment Advisor I could have asked for.”
