Steven's Story

Working again after 14 years

ESF Work Routes, our free programme supporting unemployed people across the country into worked, has supported Cornwall man Steven Dew into his first paid job in 14 years.

Work Routes offers people completely free, one-to-one employment support - from in-house skills training and interview practice, to financial assistance with child care and travel.

When Steve first approached the Truro Work Routes team in December last year, he was claiming Job Seeker's Allowance and his last paid work was in 2003.

The 62 year old had significant confidence issues and felt that his age and length of time out of work made him unemployable. He was applying for jobs but getting nowhere, making him feel very low.

The Work Routes team rallied around Steve to build his confidence and get him feeling positive about his employment prospects. By helping Steve to focus on what he could do and take on a more positive mindset, the team was able to help him develop an impressive CV and cover letter and help him believe in himself again.

After submitting a number of impressive applications and practising his interview techniques with the Work Routes team, Steve has secured paid employment as a Cleaner for Mitie at Treliske Hospital in Truro.

Steve is delighted with the support he has received to help him re-enter employment: "The Truro team has been a great help", he said. "The one to one support has given me clear direction and the training has been related to my needs, enabling me to train and grow. The positive atmosphere and support has been amazing.

"Work Routes has enabled me to have more financial freedom now that I have a sustainable job. Also, my social life will increase - I really enjoy meeting new people and making friends."

As well as a one-to-one Employment Adviser, ESF Work Routes offers participants an in-house Skills Trainer and a Health and Wellbeing Adviser to help them address employment barriers such as mental and physical health issues, diet, mindset and a lack of skills.

Work Routes is delivered across Cornwall by public services provider Reed in Partnership, who specialise in helping people into employment.

The programme is set to support almost than 6,000 jobseekers in Cornwall over a three year period

If you are over 18 and currently unemployed, visit workroutes.co.uk to sign up and find your local Work Routes office.

Work Routes is delivered in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions and funded the European Social Fund.