After two years of searching for work without success, Suffolk resident Cailin had almost lost confidence in her ability to find employment.
Finding confidence and a purpose again
Living with fibromyalgia, anxiety, depression and complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Cailin faced daily challenges that affected her wellbeing and made returning to work feel overwhelming.
Despite completing volunteering placements, bootcamps and college courses, and applying for a wide range of roles, she rarely received a response from employers.
Ready to regain her confidence and find a renewed sense of purpose, Cailin joined Connect to Work after hearing about the programme at a local community café in Ipswich.
Today, she is preparing to start a rewarding new role as an Administrator with a Drug and Alcohol Service, thanks to personalised support through Suffolk County Council’s Connect to Work.
Personalised support that put Cailin first
Delivered by Seetec, Connect to Work in Suffolk uses the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model to help people living with disabilities, health conditions and other complex barriers find and sustain meaningful employment through tailored, person-centred support.
Employment Specialist Sarah met with Cailin in Felixstowe to understand her goals, strengths and aspirations.
Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, they developed a personalised plan that reflected Cailin’s circumstances and focused on finding the right role for her.
Over the next 13 weeks, Cailin embraced every opportunity to move closer to employment. Together, they researched employers, tailored applications, prepared for interviews and used employer feedback to strengthen her job search.
Her commitment and determination paid off when she secured a role as an Administrator with a Drug and Alcohol Service – a position that matches both her skills and her desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
As part of the IPS model, Sarah will continue to provide in-work support as Cailin settles into her new role, helping her build confidence and sustain her employment.
“I began to believe in myself again”
Sarah helped me rebuild my confidence, recognise my strengths and develop a realistic plan for my job search.
Cailin reflects on her journey
Thanks to her guidance and the support from Seetec, I began to believe in myself again. Most importantly, I realised I do have valuable skills and qualities to offer an employer.
From the very first phone call, I felt listened to, valued and supported.
The support I received was tailored to my individual goals and circumstances rather than being a one-size-fits-all approach.
Over time, job hunting began to consume my life and had a significant impact on my self-confidence.
I reached a point where I genuinely believed I had little to offer an employer.
I reached out to Seetec after two years of unsuccessful job searching. During that time, I applied for a wide range of roles, completed volunteering placements, bootcamps and college courses, but despite my efforts, I rarely received a response.
Recognising strengths and unlocking potential
Sarah praised Cailin’s commitment throughout her journey:
“Cailin has been an absolute star since joining Connect to Work. She fully embraced every stage of the process, from researching employers and tailoring applications to attending interviews and asking for feedback.
Her resilience, determination and positive attitude have been inspiring, and I couldn’t be happier that she’s secured a role that’s such a great fit for her.
I’m looking forward to continuing to support Cailin as she starts this exciting new chapter.”
Cailin’s story demonstrates how the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model helps people overcome health-related barriers by focusing on their strengths, aspirations and long-term goals.
Through personalised support, encouragement and ongoing in-work guidance, Connect to Work empowers people to build confidence, secure sustainable employment and create brighter futures.
Could personalised support help you or someone you know find sustainable employment?
Connect to Work supports people living with disabilities, health conditions and other complex barriers to find and keep meaningful employment through personalised IPS support delivered by Seetec.
To refer yourself or someone you know for high quality, personalised employment support visit our referral page.
