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Reset, Restart, Recycle… Kevin’s Journey

The Restart Scheme is supporting Universal Credit claimants who have been out of work for at least 12 months with enhanced support to find jobs in their local area.

Kevin was referred to the Restart Scheme in July 2021, by Bayard House Job Centre, Walsall. After attending an initial meeting with his Skills and Progression Coach, Anouska Davies, Kevin revealed that his confidence and self-esteem was at an all-time low, a contributing factor for this was his length of unemployment.

Despite Kevin’s best efforts searching and applying for a variety of jobs. He had not been successful in securing an interview, let alone a job offer.

It was quickly identified that Kevin had a wealth of experience working in the health and safety-critical environment of metalworking, where he had fulfilled responsibilities such as:

  • Manufacturing metal ingots, apply zinc corrosion preventative coatings
  • Operating machinery including, Cranes and Forklift Trucks

Following this, it was recommended that Kevin should focus his job searching on this area of work, so Anouska took the time to work with Kevin to ensure his CV reflected his knowledge and experiences. She also took the opportunity, to reassure Kevin of his abilities, “ensuring each appointment was positive and assured him of the support that was available to him”.

After meetings, Anouska identified an improvement in Kevin’s self-confidence. Kevin took his newly updated CV to local industrial estates, handed them to businesses and within a short space of time, Kevin had secured an interview.

Anouska provided Kevin with interview preparation and conducted a mock interview helping him to feel ready to meet his potential employer.

Kevin felt confident heading into the interview, where he has been able to secure full-time work with European Metal Recycling, where he’ll be undertaking the role of Recycling Operative.

Following feedback from Kevin, it’s understood that his previous experience of working with raw materials and familiarity with Forklift Trucks, helped him stand out from other applicants.

European Metal Recycling (EMR) purpose is to be a global leader in sustainable materials. We’re wishing Kevin the best of luck in his new role!

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