I had a solid work background in the hospitality industry, but when the COVID pandemic struck, I found myself without a job.
I started to develop mental health problems during this time; I wasn’t in a good place at all. I was getting knock back after knock back when I was applying for roles which was making my mental health worse. I was out work for almost 4 years and it took its toll.
I was recommended to WorkWell Conwy by Prime Cymru who I had been working with already, and I was put in touch with my Employment Specialist Debbie. I felt ready for work then, I knew getting back into work would help my recovery.
Debbie helped me by tidying up and updating my CV, and we looked at what type of roles would be best for me. I started applying for roles again and within 4 weeks I had an interview at St Georges hotel in Llandudno. They were at a jobs fair I was going to that week, and they interviewed me there and then; I got the job!
My food safety qualification was out of date by then, but Prime Cymru offered to pay for the renewal which was really helpful.
After 4 years out of work I was finally working again. It was only part time hours to start with, but I’m a hard worker and reliable, and within a month I was put forward for a full-time head kitchen porter position and was successful. I was so relieved.
I’ve been in work again for nearly a year now, and I’m much happier; my mental health and my general wellbeing is so much better.
I’m still in touch with WorkWell, the support doesn’t stop when you get a job, we keep in touch every few weeks to make sure I’m OK, which I’m grateful for.