The Restart Scheme helps participant find a new career path

Searching for a new role can be challenging especially when you’re looking to change careers and need additional support to navigate the labour market. For 27-year-old Oyebanbo, from Greenwich, these challenges became more difficult after being unemployed for more than a year.

With previous experience as a Marketing Manager, Oyebanbo was eager to explore new opportunities but was struggling to identify suitable roles. Uncertain about her next steps, she joined the Restart Scheme, delivered by our partners Greenwich Local Labour and Business (GLLaB).

Oyebanbo started working with her Employment Advisor who created a tailored support plan which included wellbeing sessions and employability development workshops. She also attended weekly job clubs where she received help to complete online applications, created a new CV and received intensive interview coaching, which ensured that she remained motivated and focused.

Finding the wellbeing sessions particularly impactful, Oyebanbo shared: “The sessions were really useful, I found my confidence improved which helped reframe my mindset. They helped me understand that my situation was not permanent and I would get through this hurdle.”

Oyebanbo approached her job search with positivity and determination, as she continued to work closely with her advisor and, as her confidence increased, she started to explore different career options. After months of uncertainty, Oyebanbo was delighted when she secured an Executive Officer position with the Department for Work and Pensions.

Reflecting on her Restart Scheme journey, Oyebanbo said: “I found the programme highly beneficial and incredibly invaluable as it helped strengthen my employment opportunities. I would encourage anyone to keep an open mind as the scheme offers a number of opportunities for personal growth and development. It didn’t just help me with job searching, it also helped with my wellbeing, which in turn helped me step into a new career and I couldn’t be happier.”