A Fresh Start Through Personalised Support
After losing his job of 15 years due to deteriorating mental health, Hampshire resident Sebby faced significant challenges, including housing instability, declining confidence and uncertainty about returning to work.
After meeting the team at a local jobs fair, Sebby joined Hampshire County Council’s Connect to Work programme through a referral from Itchen College.
Sebby recalls taking a call from Seetec Employment Specialist Holly
I thought it was just another one of those things you sign up for. Then Holly called me, and from there everything started coming together.
Sebby, Hampshire Resident
Holly completed a vocational profile with Sebby to better understand his needs, identify his strengths and aspirations, and explore the support he would need to achieve his employment goals.
Together, they developed a tailored action plan, providing the structure and encouragement he needed to move forward.
The support included CV development, job search assistance, wellbeing referrals, counselling, practical help with work essentials and ongoing encouragement to rebuild his confidence.
Building skills, confidence and a future career
As well as exploring different career pathways to find the right role for him, Sebby gained qualifications in First Aid, Food Hygiene and Health & Safety, completed his Functional Skills Maths qualification and is now working towards Functional Skills English.
He also prioritised his wellbeing by taking part in charity fundraising events, including completing a 10K run.
With tailored support through Connect to Work, Sebby successfully secured employment as a chef in a care home kitchen and is now exploring opportunities to increase his hours while continuing his education.
Itchen College recognised Sebby’s commitment to learning and personal development by nominating him for an Adult Learner Award in recognition of his progress.
The right support can change lives
Sebby’s journey demonstrates how integrated, person-centred supported employment can help individuals with complex barriers regain confidence, develop new skills and achieve sustainable employment.
Sebby found that the right support made all the difference: “Connect to Work gave me all the tools I needed. When the opportunity came, they made sure nothing stood in my way.”
Do you need help with finding or keeping a job? Visit Prosperity Hampshire to learn more.
