Michael cruises into security sector with Restart Scheme

Former art student and aspiring tattooist, Michael left college to care for his mother who has a severe spinal condition.

As a young carer, Michael was unable to work because his mother was dependent on him for support.

It was a relief for Michael when his mother was granted support with care, as it meant he could work again.

At the height of the covid pandemic he joined the ‘KickStart’ scheme, it helped Michael find a placement at a tattoo studio.

He remained with the tattoo studio but this did not provide a stable income and he found himself back at the jobcentre plus again.

Limited local options

He was delighted when his work coach referred him to the Restart Scheme.

He initially met with employment adviser, Ruth, who concentrated on listening to Michael’s needs.

Together, they explored training options to help Michael to find a suitable career pathway.

Finding training that would lead to truly sustainable employment for Michael proved challenging due to limited local options.

Ruth helped Michael to build a new CV, they explored jobs together and identified suitable career events too.

Michael was then transferred to employment adviser Marcus for the next stage of support.

Marcus honed in on Michael’s father’s past military history and suggested the idea of working in the security industry.

Michael says: “I felt curious and excited about this, it was a fresh idea, and I was eager to see where it could lead.”

Marcus found a security training course (SIA) for Michael in Swindon with Zems Academy which he committed to attending.

It was a two-week course with a group of 18 learners and Michael was looking forward to the practical part.

Michael committed to the training and attended every day. Seetec reimbursed his travel costs due to the location.

Joining the training helped Michael understand why he’d be a good fit for the security industry.

Michael tells us: “I want to get into security because it’s something a bit different, challenging, and you get to meet and help people.”

He continues: “It’s not your usual ‘office day job’ it’s rewarding, and you get more out of it.”

The course consisted of health and safety, first aid and security training too and he enjoyed the practical elements the most.

Michael was buzzing after finishing the course and when he told his partner the good news.

His partner at the time, put him in touch with her uncle who owns a security company and they were recruiting locally too.

He took the opportunity to meet with his partner’s uncle and a job offer was on the table immediately.

Reflecting on his journey, Michael says: “It’s all happened so quickly, I’ve completed my training and got the job in such a short space of time!”

Michael adds: “Marcus has been an amazing support, the Restart Scheme has changed my life and Seetec has helped me upskill to work in the security sector.

Working full-time hours has improved Michael’s finances, he’s planning to start saving and investing in case of ‘a rainy day’.

Michael is a keen and committed motorcyclist and a motorbike ride into Europe has long been on his bucket list.

Being in work and earning again means he can finally realise those travel dreams too!

Michael continues to receive ‘in-work’ support from Marcus which helps to bolster the chances of him sustaining employment.

Delighted with Michael’s progress, Marcus tells us: “He was always keen to engage and really enjoyed the SIA course”.

Marcus continues: “He’s had challenges in the past and I’m glad to have been part of his journey back to work.

“I’m confident Seetec’s support has given him the platform to move forward with his life.”