Real life stories
Having a job
Shiu-Ming, who we support, says “it’s better to be working. You can make friends in the workplace; earn your own money and you are constantly learning more skills.”
Shiu-Ming gets support through our Richmond and Wandsworth Employment service and has found paid work as a Business Trainee. He continues to get our support to work towards achieving his longer-term ambitions.
“When I was looking," continues Shiu-Ming, "Becca (Employment Service Coordinator), helped me apply for jobs and we did a lot of interview practice together. She also arranged pre-interview visits for me with employers. I’m still a bit nervous about going to job interviews but this is normal for anyone. Becca gave me the option of coming along with me if I felt like I needed it.”
He says: “I’m a person who is passionate about standing up for equal rights for disabled people. I’m gaining loads of skills at my job as a Business Trainee and I’m still meeting up with Becca who is helping me learn more. She recently organised a public speaking course for me to attend. My long-term ambition is to help other disabled people gain more motivation and self-esteem. Becca is helping me realise this dream.”
“I know I will have lots of opportunities coming up in the future. I feel like I’m heading in the right direction, it’s positive.”
How can you access our support to find work?
- Use our interactive map to see if you live in one of the areas where we already run a supported employment project.
- Read the qualifying criteria of the supported employment project nearest to you. If you meet the criteria then you can either self-refer, using our on-line form, or ask your care manager to refer you.
- We can support you to find work if we already support you, in any region – employment support will be provided by us or a partner provider.