Vicki’s Journey to Part Time Employment

Background

Kilbirnie Job Centre referred Vicki to CEIS Ayrshire for employability support to help her re-enter the workforce on a part-time basis. As a mother of a school-aged child, Vicki had limited availability in terms of hours and days she could work. She was eager to find a suitable job but faced challenges, including low confidence and concerns about balancing work and parenting.

Assessing Skills and Building Confidence

The initial step was to explore Vicki’s extensive skillset and determine how her experience could be leveraged across different business sectors. Vicki had previously held a variety of jobs, amassing a wealth of life and work experience, but her time out of the workforce had left her feeling nervous. Her confidence needed a significant boost before she could confidently re-enter the job market.

To support her, CEIS Ayrshire worked with Vicki to update and improve her CV. By highlighting her skills and achievements, Vicki began to realise the value she could bring to potential employers. This process of reconstructing her CV not only helped her feel more prepared for job applications but also significantly lifted her self-assurance.

Workshops and Skill Development

To further enhance her employability, Vicki was enrolled in various Zoom workshops and accredited training courses. These courses aimed to make her CV stand out to employers and reflect her determination to return to work. Vicki completed a range of qualifications, including:

• Level 2 Food Hygiene
• Manual Handling
• Health and Safety in the Workplace
• COVID-19 in the Workplace
• COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health)
• Slips, Trips, and Falls
• First Aid

Securing Employment

An opportunity arose when North Ayrshire Council advertised roles in local schools as part of their Skills for Life programme. The role of Facility Cleaner seemed ideal for Vicki, so she and her Key Worker completed the application together. CEIS Ayrshire also provided interview preparation support, which played a crucial role in her successful application. Vicki was offered a 6-month funded position at a local school, contingent on her completing a set of required qualifications. She successfully completed all these qualifications online, further boosting her confidence and readiness for the job.

Achieving Further Success

Vicki’s new-found confidence inspired her to apply for additional roles within North Ayrshire Council. She was invited to interview for a Dining Room Supervisor position at a local school and secured this role as well. However, after careful consideration, she decided the Skills for Life position was the best fit for her and chose to pursue that.

Client Feedback

What skills have you gained/improved upon, whilst on the programme?

“I have completed online training courses such as, Level 2 Food Hygiene, Manual Handling, Health and Safety in the Workplace, Covid-19 in the Workplace, COSHH, Slips, trips and Falls and First Aid.”

Do you believe CEIS Ayrshire has improved your chances of finding employment?

“Yes, definitely gave me confidence.”

Do you feel you were supported by your advisor?

“Yes! Ian is such a nice man. Very kind and very helpful. He helped with every single thing that I needed assistance with. He gave me great advice and gave me the confidence to want to get back into work.”

Get in touch

If Vivki’s story has inspired you, please contact us using the form below and find out how we can support you into employment.