Helping Joe back into a career

“I am a very social person and like to help my neighbours when I can. I enjoy cooking and carpentry and would love to be self-employed in any of these areas. I value my family and friends and enjoy living in my community.

“I was a chef in the armed forces back in 1992 and have tried several times to get back into working in a kitchen.

“I referred myself for employment advice and guidance at the Opportunity Hub in Yeovil Library in January 2023 after being long-term unemployed. I hadn’t worked since 2017 after being a cleaner for a local GP surgery.  I had tried other positions, but nothing was sustainable, and I had lost a lot of confidence.

“I used to work in a busy kitchen, but due to my clinical deafness I lost confidence and suffered with anxiety; everything was too loud and it was hard to focus. I found it difficult to see a role which I was suitable for at that time.

“My Employment Coach, Gill, met with me on a regular basis to update my CV, identifying skills and exploring opportunities. I did secure a job with the local community kitchen but found that the role was highly stressful. I continued to job seek with Gill and then secured a chef role with the Bell Inn.

“I knew the publican and had gained the confidence to apply directly. I secured the job and now work part to full time hours depending on season.

“Due to my disability, I would feel more confident being self-employed, so I took advice from my Employment Coach. I asked the local community group at St Peters Community Centre whether I could use their kitchen if I secured any booking, and to my surprise they agreed.

“I have now volunteered at St Peters and delivered all the catering at a corporate event, consisting of funders for the Pantry. This has given me the opportunity to take photos of my skills and ability and develop a portfolio to start developing a catering business.

“I see Gill on a weekly basis, and she continues to give snippets of advice to encourage me moving forward. 

“I am more confident and happier. My finances have improved, and I can now afford to pay my way and afford the odd luxury. Although I am focused on how to develop as self-employed so will now look after the pennies to invest in myself."