How Citizen’s Employment Service helped me start a healthcare career

When I moved into my flat with Citizen in January, as a single mother raising three wonderful sons, the Advice Services Team began supporting me.

That’s when I met Lucy, one of Citizen’s Employment Coaches. She was kind, understanding and wanted to know more about what I hoped to achieve.

Lucy asked if I needed support getting into work. I’d been a full-time mum for many years, but I told her I was interested in healthcare and would love the chance to work in that area.

My interest came from caring for my disabled dad, who has brain damage. Looking after him helped me realise I wanted a career where I could make a positive impact every day.

Although it was sometimes challenging, it gave me valuable experience and inspired me to pursue a future in healthcare.

Lucy quickly got back to me with details of a healthcare course at Coventry College and asked if I’d be interested.

The very next morning, she called to ask if I could attend the college that day to complete some assessments.

I wanted to give myself the best chance, so I did everything I could to get there. Thankfully, my mum was able to help with childcare.

I felt nervous because I didn’t know what to expect, but I also felt hopeful because it seemed like a real opportunity to change my future.

I’m so happy to say I passed the assessments and was accepted onto the course, which started the following Monday.

The course wasn’t always easy. I taught myself English after arriving in the UK, and I had never been to college or completed a course before.

There were times when I doubted myself, but I stayed motivated by thinking about my family and the future I wanted to build.

The support from my tutors and the encouragement I received from Lucy gave me the confidence to keep going.

When I completed the course, I felt incredibly proud of myself. It proved that with determination and hard work, I could achieve something I never thought was possible.

As the course came to an end, we were introduced to job opportunities and had the chance to apply.

Before my interview, Lucy helped me improve my CV and talked me through what to expect.

Although they weren’t offering part-time positions, which is what I was looking for, the women interviewing me were so impressed, especially by how I care for my father, that they offered me a position.

After completing my DBS check, I started working for them on a part-time contract. I’m excited because they offer lots of training opportunities, so I can keep learning, develop my skills and gain more experience.

I’m so grateful to Lucy and everyone who supported me. This opportunity has really changed things for me.