"The support you get is exceptional."

We are really proud of the work we have been doing to help more people in Scotland to start working.

We recently moved passed 4,000 unemployed people supported into employment through our delivery of the Department for Work and Pensions JETS service there.

"The support you get is exceptional."

Thomas is one of these people whose lives have been improved by finding work.

He had been frustrated while looking for work because he felt having no qualifications really limited his employment options.

Thomas worked with his JETS Employment Adviser, Sharon, who took time to find out about his previous work history and aspirations.

Thomas explained to Sharon that because he could not afford a more modern phone he could not job search or manage his CV online. Sharon used the support funds available through JETS to purchase him a new phone. As well as job searching and updating his CV Thomas was now able to use his phone to join online training sessions. This was to prove important.

Part of finding out more about Thomas including discovering more about the things he might be interested in doing.

Out of this Sharon helped Thomas to make a plan of support to realise his ambitions of working in the security industry. This became a real turning point for Thomas – he became completely invested and excited by this opportunity.

Sharon worked with Thomas on applying for a Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence. He would also need to complete Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) and Automated External Defibrillation (AED) course to qualify. Sharon sourced some mock tests and practiced with him to support him with his confidence. The courses were delivered online – another first for Thomas, who accessed it on his new phone.

He passed both courses and subsequently found something within himself that was even more important: he really began to believe in himself.

Thomas told us he had never imagined ever being able to learn online, but the way that the courses were delivered really suited his learning style. Because of this he successfully completed his Door Supervisor training. With Sharon’s help he was able to find a job with GTS – a social enterprise operating in the private security industry.

Thomas said that his time using JETS Scotland has been “outstanding.”

“Sharon listened to what l had to say and immediately the plan was in motion. She arranged funding and booked my course straight away.

"I can't commend her more for the support, especially when l doubted myself. I have passed everything with flying colours and it's all thanks to Reed in Partnership.

"I truly believe this should be the first point of contact anyone who needs to start working. The support you get is exceptional."

JETS Scotland is no longer receiving new referrals of jobseekers. However, we will continue supporting those already using the service for another six months to more people across Scotland find a job that changes their life for the better.

You can find out more about our work in Scotland by clicking here.