We’re really grateful when young people who have been supported by Talent Match, let us know what difference we have made to them. Below is a story from Jess, who came to Talent Match Lowestoft in September 2015.
Talent Match is a free service for motivated young people, aged 18 to 24, who have been out of work for over 12 months. We help young people in Lowestoft and Ipswich to find work experience, training, gain skills and ultimately, employment. Click here to find out more.
“Hi my name is Jessica and before I came to Talent Match I was unsure of what it was I wanted to do.
I had a general idea of the career path in mind, but had no clue of how to start the journey. After spending two years raising my daughter, I now decided that I wanted to return to work and heard about Talent Match through a friend.
I was introduced to Steve the Youth Advocate who explained in greater detail what the programme could offer me. I felt that this would be a good starting point to get my foot in the door of a career that was suited to me. I mentioned that I have a passion for helping other people so Steve and Ollie made contact with Leading Lives which is a charity based organisation that helps people of all ages whom have disabilities. The Advocates arranged a 4 week work experience placement. However, I think that I can safely say within the first few days in the centre, this was what I wanted to do. I found myself in an environment where I could help people do even the simplest things that you and I take for granted. I had found my calling. The TM Advocates kept in regular contact with myself and Leading Lives to ensure that I was doing ok and continued to offer support if needed. I was offered a permanent position at the end of the work experience.
Having now been in full time employment for over 6 months, I find the hours are perfect. This is ideal as it suits everyone concerned. I am convinced that if it were not for the support and opportunities offered to me by the Advocates through the TM programme, I would not be in the job/career that I am now. They have been super supportive from day one and still continue to support me even now. I simply cannot thank them enough for their help, understanding, patients and support.”
If you think Talent Match could help you, or someone you know, get in touch here.
