August 15, 2024 Posted by: Charlotte

After 45 years at HMRC, Karen expected retirement to be a break. But her passion for leadership and mentoring lingered, and she wasn’t ready to stop working. Starting her own business felt daunting until she found help from Start Up West Yorkshire.

August 15, 2024 Posted by: Charlotte

Frazer always excelled in Health and Safety, but when he took the leap into self-employment, he faced challenges beyond his expertise. As stress mounted, an unexpected ally appeared.

August 15, 2024 Posted by: Charlotte

Rebuilding life after prison can be tough, but at PeoplePlus, we believe education is key to breaking the cycle of re-offending. As the UK’s largest provider of prison education, we help ex-offenders gain the skills they need to succeed. Join us as we share how education is making a difference and helping people like Lowan turn their lives around.

August 12, 2024 Posted by: Charlotte

Julie, a dedicated NHS dental nurse, saw a growing gap in foot care services, especially post-COVID. When routine podiatry care was no longer funded, she retrained as a foot care practitioner and with Start Up West Yorkshire's support launched Keane’s Foot Care to meet this need.

August 9, 2024 Posted by: Jenna

Our Hospitality & Catering department at HMP Hollesley Bay is working closely with local employers to equip learners with practical skills and create employment opportunities for them upon release.

August 6, 2024 Posted by: Charlotte

After a detached retina ended his taxi career in June 2022, James faced further setbacks and declining mental health. However, Fair Start Scotland offered a lifeline. With support from his Key Worker, Debi, and involvement in activities like the Let’s Talk walking group and a football fitness club, James found renewed confidence and hope. Though still job hunting, his journey with Fair Start Scotland has been transformative.

July 30, 2024 Posted by: Charlotte

Fair Start Scotland's Key Worker, Michael, recently led a DPS course at in Edinburgh, helping individuals build confidence and gain skills to re-enter the workforce. The eight-day course, aimed at those facing long-term unemployment or other challenges, was highly praised for its clear and supportive approach.

July 26, 2024 Posted by: Charlotte

We’re proud to have been the first provider in Wales since the extension of the Restart Scheme contract to find a participant employment! When the participant arrived at our Restart office in Pontypridd they had an interview lined up but really wanted some advice and guidance on how to do well.

July 25, 2024 Posted by: Charlotte

Nicole, a single mother of four, transformed her passion for sweets into a thriving business while balancing childcare duties. With the support of Fair Start Scotland and advisor Gordon, she navigated the challenges of self-employment, from crafting a business plan to mastering marketing strategies. Nicole's journey proves that with the right support, dreams can indeed turn into sweet success.

July 19, 2024 Posted by: Charlotte

Marcin was referred to the Restart Scheme in Darlington in May 2023 by the Jobcentre. He attended 12 interviews but failed to attend 22 other interviews. He also failed to attend 6 courses he was booked onto with the Skills Trainer. However, despite a bad start, Marcin did find work from August to September 2023 and for another employer between October to November 2023. Marcin walked out of both jobs. Marcin admitted that he had an alcohol addiction and no longer had support at home from his friend or family. Nicola, our Rapid Response Advisor tried to help Marcin and advised him to get help...........

July 19, 2024 Posted by: Jodie

July 19, 2024 Posted by: Jenna

Construction learners at HMP Stocken have been able to apply the practical skills from their courses to refurbish the prison's gym showers, benefiting the entire prison community