Devon Youth Hub recently celebrated supporting 75 young people, aged 16-24, into employment, training, or education.
Rhian Hawthorne, Youth Hub Coordinator said:
“Following an employer event at the Youth Hub, Paul was referred by his Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) Work Coach, Karenza, for support.
While getting to know Paul we discovered that he was interested in the outdoor and working in a hands-on position, where he could use his experience in farm work and the knowledge from his Level 2 Land Based Agriculture qualification from Bicton College. Paul was finding job searching independently difficult for a range of reasons and he felt that this was affecting his mental health.
We agreed with him that he would benefit from identifying his skills and personal qualities, as well as building his confidence and resilience. We explored his options and created an up-to-date CV, helped with the job application process and researched DWP kickstart jobs of interest. Paul also attended regular weekly meetings with his Work Coach who continued to support him and send vacancies via work journal messages and attended further employer events at the job centre.
We were delighted when Paul found a Kickstart job at Glendale, which provide gardening service on behalf of Exeter City Council. He was attracted to this role because “it was practical” and related to grounds maintenance. He decided to apply, and we created a cover letter together and updated his CV. This resulted in him gaining an interview, and most importantly, getting the job! Paul said he “was shocked, grateful and excited” about the new opportunity.
Glendale have proved to be a supportive employer, providing all the PPE needed to carry out his duties. I asked Paul how things are going so far, and he said that “I was really quiet to start with b
ut now I’m ok talking to the others that work there”
Paul added that the Youth Hub was “Friendly and welcoming” and “supportive” and “it was better because there were less people, so it was more relaxed”,
“I would recommend anyone come into the Youth Hub for help”
Paul hopes that the Kickstart placement will lead to a permanent job opportunity, but if not, he knows he can come to the Youth Hub.
Through Paul’s determination and resilience and the support of both the Youth Hub and job centre, Paul is now enjoying the world of work and building positive relationships with his fellow workers.”
Book your appointment at the Youth Hub
The Youth Hub is based in Exeter Works.
