Overcoming adversity to work

Ernest came along to Work Routes at a challenging time in his life: “I had lost my mum, I had lost my job due to illness and I was fairly run down, maybe even depressed.”

Ernest’s Adviser at Jobcentre Plus referred him to our Work Routes service and his case landed on the desk of Employment Adviser Gary. Launched in August 2016, Work Routes offers jobseekers in Cornwall completely free, one-to-one employment support. Ernest said:

“Work Routes seemed altogether different and Gary spent time understanding where I was coming from; he listened and empathised. At the time I was grieving for my lost mother and I was also unwell myself.”

The Work Routes team work together with other community support organisations to help people like Ernest. Ernest explained:

“My adviser listened to my ideas around self-employment and referred me to Outset Cornwall for specialist support. This led me to realise my ambition of starting my own ice-cream business, Cornie’s Classic Cornets: It is now in its third month and continuing to grow!”

Like Ernest, many people who use Work Routes overcome significant barriers to working, including long-term unemployment, health problems and challenging family situations. Ernest said:

“Work Routes has been an altogether positive experience and everyone at the service seemed to genuinely care and want to help, not just go through the motions and tick the boxes.”

Jobseekers can receive free in-house skills training; job searching; interview practice, financial assistance with childcare and travel; and support in dealing with other potential barriers such as housing or lone parenthood.

Even though he is now working, Ernest continues to receive support from Gary:

“Gary still metaphorically holds my hands; checking in, asking questions and providing support and advice.”

Are you looking to get back into work? If you’re 16 and over and currently unemployed visit workroutes.co.uk for more information. Work Routes is delivered in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions and funded by the European Social Fund.