Chris registered with CEDA in January 2005 – he had been working on a building site as a Labourer, but was paid off in late November 2004. He was keen to return to the construction industry, and was willing to undertake training to upskill if necessary. Chris suffers from migraines and felt that working outdoors alleviated this.

Chris attended an Employer Led Demolition Programme information session in February. He completed an application form, as he was interested in pursuing this as an option.

He completed one day Health & Safety Training via RM Skills. Shortly after, Chris informed me that he had been for an interview with a Pipefitting company and had been successful in securing a job. He commenced his job on 14 March 2005. He was given financial assistance under Action Team For Jobs to help with his financial situation until he received his first pay.

Lack of work brought Chris back to CEDA in October 2005 and he was keen to look at fresh opportunities. Chris attended a Jobsfair Event on 6th October at CEDA. At this event he met representatives from DACS and discussed the type of work available with them.

Chris was then invited to attend an Information Day at CEDA where he could find out more about the training involved. He was very encouraged by this session and equally so by the other clients involved – there was a healthy balance of men and women in this group. He decided to go forward and begin a new career.

Throughout the course Chris maintained excellent attendance, positive input and commitment to a career in the care sector. From the very beginning DACS staff noticed his positive focus and healthy attitude to the nature of the work.

Chris ‘graduated’ with his group in November and was promptly offered a start date. Almost six months on and Chris is really enjoying his new role, he is happy in his new team and looking forward to progressing further with DACS.

Isabel registered with CEDA in November ’04, hoping to take up training within the Care environment. She is a lone parent with 2 children on Income Support and had been unemployed for many years.

Further guidance and information was provided as she felt ‘Care’ was the occupational area that most interested her. In particular she was informed of opportunities with Glasgow City Council Employer Led Training, for Direct & Care Services. Isabel felt that this was ideal for her and that it was time for her to take up employment. Isabel coped very well with the course, the work placement boosted her confidence, skills and knowledge.

On completion of the course Isabel achieved certification in: Food Hygiene, First Aid; Dealing with Dementia and Difficult Behavior; Report Writing; Moving & Handling, Abuse, Cultural Awareness and Personal Care.

Isabel was also provided with CEDA’s services to access childcare funding and Personal & Social Development workshops. Referrals to ‘Money Matters’ for ‘In work Calculations’ and benefit advice together with Mock Interviews were carried out, and Isabel looked forward to receiving confirmation of a start date with DACS.

On the 4th of July 2005 Isobel truly celebrated Independence Day – she started work with Direct & Care Services providing Home Support within her local community and hasn’t looked back.