Securing a future with help from the Restart Scheme
Ramatu secures her future with help from the Restart Scheme
Ramatu Koroma, 53, fell out of work after struggling to find a flexible role that meant she could still look after her children.
Needing further support, Ramatu from Barking, joined the Restart Scheme in October 2023, after a year of unemployment. Her Employment Advisor, Tahera Bapu, was on hand to help her secure a new position.
Tahera saw that Ramatu had experience in security work, catering and care, but had struggled to find the right role that would fit in with her schedule.
She was particularly interested in returning to security work but was without an official accreditation. Understanding the benefits of holding this qualification, Tahera referred her to one of our Community Partnership Network members, Goodwill Business Services Limited.
Tahera also helped Ramatu by reimbursing her travel and childcare expenses, meaning she could attend her course without having to worry about the financial implications. Fiercely determined to succeed, Ramatu gained Security Industry Authority accreditation, making her a lot more competitive within the job market.
Tahera also helped to update Ramatu’s CV and complete job applications. Together with the recruitment team, Ramatu and Tahera found a number of roles that she would enjoy and that she could fit in with her childcare commitments. With a brand-new CV and accreditation, Ramatu applied, and was offered two flexible positions, both of which she accepted.
Ramatu started her new role as a Security Adviser with Centre Circle, and her second role as a Special Education Needs Teaching Assistant, in September.
Looking back on the help she received, Ramatu said: “I had the greatest and best support from Maximus. My advisor was always highly professional, with great respect and support throughout my time on the scheme.
“She always listened and took all my concerns on board to help me move forward. Maximus and the Restart Scheme are phenomenal, and I owe everything to them.”