Breaking Barriers: Lee’s Journey to Success with Learning for Work, Learning for Life

Lee’s journey to career success is a story of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of support. Having faced several challenges in his job search, including anxiety and a lack of direction, Lee’s situation seemed daunting. Yet, with the guidance and support of the Learning For Work Learning For Life , he was able to overcome barriers and build the confidence necessary to achieve his goal: securing a job with Salford Council as a Talent Support Advisor.

When Lee first came to the Learning For Work Learning For Life program, he struggled with issues related to confidence, anxiety, and a sense of defeatism. His Autism, which he often attributed to these feelings, was only one part of his identity, and it was crucial for him to realize that he was much more than just his diagnosis. Through one-on-one sessions, we pinpointed key areas for improvement, starting with his CV and cover letter skills. Lee had been out of work for seven months, which only amplified his fear of applying for jobs, especially in environments like busy offices.

However, through our work together, Lee began to see his skills in a new light. We focused on highlighting his strengths and translating them into a compelling CV and cover letter that truly reflected his abilities. As we worked on these practical elements, Lee’s confidence started to grow, and his anxiety began to lessen.

A key turning point in Lee’s development came when he joined a group project to create a funding bid video for a future project with fellow participant from the Communications and Marketing team . Lee was particularly involved in the graphic design and research aspects of the project, and it was here that he began to truly shine. Collaborating with others in a team, in a real-world setting, helped Lee become more comfortable in both personal and professional interactions. His interpersonal communication skills flourished, and his confidence in these areas grew exponentially.

The experience of working in a busy office environment as part of the project was a breakthrough for Lee. Despite his initial fears, he embraced the challenge, gaining hands-on experience while also building his self-assurance. Lee’s growth was remarkable. His once hesitant approach to job applications transformed into a proactive mindset, and the defeatism that had previously held him back was replaced with a renewed sense of possibility.

After receiving tailored support in applying for roles, Lee is now comfortable pursuing job opportunities with confidence. His successful application for the Talent Support Advisor position at Salford Council is a testament to his hard work, determination, and the newfound belief in his own abilities. Lee’s excitement when he shared the news of his new job was very visible, as he expressed a level of confidence that was a far cry from where he began.

Reflecting on his journey, Lee shared that the most significant benefit he gained from the Learning for Work Learning For Life tutor support was his greatly improved interpersonal communication skills. These skills were essential in his successful interview for the Salford role. Lee noted that the human approach to teaching and support throughout the placement allowed him to see himself in a new light. It helped him recognize his strengths and supplemented his skills with online training to fill in any gaps, further enhancing his CV.

Today, Lee is not only on track to build the life he wants, but he also possesses the tools and confidence to continue growing in both his personal and professional life. His story is a powerful reminder that with the right support, anyone can break through barriers and achieve their goals