A Mum on a Mission: Hanna’s Journey Back into Work
November 14, 2025Posted by:
Hanna, a single mum, joined the Restart Scheme in Darlington with an open mind, a positive attitude, and a real desire to return to work. Her CV showed a wealth of transferable skills and as any parent knows, being a mum had only added to them.
From the very start, Hanna was committed. She attended all her appointments and took part in several internal courses designed to build her confidence and refresh her skills. Her determination soon paid off when she secured a job. Unfortunately, a contract change meant the offer was withdrawn, which understandably knocked her confidence. But true to form, Hanna didn’t give up. She stayed positive and continued applying for jobs every week.
To help strengthen her CV and show employers her commitment, her Employment Advisor, Alex, suggested volunteering. Hanna took the advice on board and secured a volunteer role with Scope in the Cornmill Centre, Darlington. She started out sorting stock in the shop, then progressed to working on the tills, and eventually moved into an administrative role listing items on eBay. This experience not only boosted her confidence but also demonstrated her dedication and versatility.
During her time on the Restart Scheme, Hanna also achieved another personal milestone she passed her driving test and was gifted a car by her mum. This new independence gave her the freedom to widen her job search and explore more opportunities further afield.
When an administration role became available through the Restart Scheme, Alex immediately thought of Hanna. She applied, was invited to interview, and was offered the job the very same day. She quickly arranged childcare with her daughter’s nursery and started work, taking on a part-time schedule of Tuesday to Thursday.
Hanna shared:
“I really appreciate your help in finding this job Alex. I'm so pleased to have found somewhere that is willing to be so flexible and is an administration role. They seem like a lovely company and I'm looking forward to working with them.”
Scope were sad to see her go, and Hanna reflected fondly on her volunteering experience, saying she hopes to return to help out once she’s settled into her new routine. When asked if she thought volunteering made a difference in her job search, she didn’t hesitate in saying “yes, it did” and she now recommends it to other Restart Scheme participants.
Hanna’s story is a fantastic example of how persistence, positivity, and the right support can lead to success. The Restart Scheme helped her build confidence, gain new experience, and ultimately find flexible, meaningful employment that fits around her family life.
November 14, 2025Posted by:
