Alan

I’d been in a job as a fabrication engineer for over 16 years. I thought I was there for life, but I started having problems with my arm, and it led to me losing my job.

This was the first time I’ve been out of work in my life, and I just crumbled. I thought I’d walk into another job easily, but I didn’t know where to start. I couldn’t do the physical job I’d always done.

I was all over the place, a mess. It got to a point where I couldn’t get out of bed. I went to my doctors, and they referred me to a therapist, who put me in touch with WorkWell.

It all happened very quickly. The therapist sent across my details on Monday, and I had my first meeting with my Employment Specialist Pete within a week.

Pete’s been brilliant, I can’t thank him enough, he’s been amazing with me. I suffer with anxiety and meeting new people is hard, but I felt at ease straight away. He’s helped me a lot with my confidence, which was very low when I met him. I didn’t have a CV because I’d been in my old job for so long, so we worked on that, and helped identify what my transferable skills are. I’m seeing a pre-employment coach to help me with what’s next too which is helpful.

I’ve regained some feeling of self-worth; I feel more positive and I’m trying new things again. My family have noticed a difference too, I’m contributing to family life again, doing things with my granddaughter. My wife says she’s seen an amazing change in me and is so thankful.

I didn’t think I was going to ever be working again. But I’m hoping that in the next 6 months I’ll be back in work; I want to be in work. I’ve realised I’m not useless anymore.

I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for Work Well; thank you.