Harrison’s journey back into work with Restart Scheme

Introduction

After experiencing a very difficult period in his life, Harrison knew he needed encouragement, motivation and the right support to help him move forward. When he was referred to the Restart Scheme by Bournemouth Jobcentre, he took an important first step towards rebuilding his confidence and creating a more positive future. This is where his journey back into work began.

Joining the programme gave Harrison the opportunity to work closely with his Employment Advisor, Charyse, who supported him to take things one step at a time. Together, they focused on rebuilding his confidence, identifying his strengths and creating a realistic route back into employment. Through regular appointments, practical guidance and consistent encouragement, Harrison began to recognise his own potential again and build momentum towards his goals.

Rebuilding confidence and developing skills

One of the first priorities was updating Harrison’s CV. Working alongside his advisor, Harrison transformed it into a stronger, more professional and competitive document that better reflected his skills, experience and potential. This helped him approach job applications with renewed confidence.

Alongside this, Harrison also enrolled in Functional Skills training to further develop his knowledge and improve his long-term employment prospects. By continuing to invest in his learning, Harrison demonstrated a clear commitment to building a better future and increasing his opportunities.

Throughout his time on the Restart Scheme, Harrison consistently showed determination, resilience and a positive attitude. He embraced every opportunity available to him and remained focused on moving forward.

Gaining valuable work experience

With support from Charyse, Harrison successfully secured two temporary job opportunities. These roles were an important milestone in his progress, allowing him to gain valuable recent work experience, strengthen his confidence in the workplace and continue building momentum towards permanent employment.

Each role gave Harrison the chance to develop his skills further, adapt to new environments and prove to himself that he was ready to return to sustained employment.

Harrison is an amazing individual whose dedication, positivity and determination to grow and improve are truly inspiring. We wish him every success in his future and are confident he will continue to achieve great things.

Charyse.

Offered a job on the spot

Most recently, Harrison was put forward for a full-time kitchen porter vacancy. After preparing for interview with support from his advisor, he attended the interview and made such a strong impression that he was offered the role there and then.

He began his new full-time position on 10 February, marking the start of an exciting new chapter in his employment journey.

Thriving in his new role

Since starting work, Harrison has gone from strength to strength and is thriving in his new role. He has settled in well, built positive relationships with colleagues and shown a strong work ethic from day one.

This positive update reflects the progress Harrison has made, not only in securing employment but in rebuilding his confidence and creating stability for the future.

Looking ahead

Harrison’s story is a powerful example of what can be achieved when determination is matched with the right support. By taking steady steps, developing his skills and staying committed to his goals, he has successfully moved into sustainable employment and is continuing to flourish.

Could BOOST help you to overcome your barriers and get back to work? Ask your Jobcentre Plus work coach about the Restart Scheme.