Simon joined the TNG ESF programme having been out of work for twelve months. He was de-motivated and, due to a bad experience with his last employer, could not see a way forward. Simon prefers to work alone and outside, which means his work options are limited, but with support from TNG he was hoping to find a route back to work.

As well as being long term unemployed, Simon had little confidence and found interacting with others and using the telephone challenging. Despite being referred to other providers in the past, Simon felt that he had received little support or development from them to overcome these barriers.

Simon lacked knowledge of basic IT packages and as a result had never constructed a CV, so staff at TNG worked with him to ensure he gained basic computer skills and felt comfortable constructing his own CV. He also received training from his tutor, Richard, to improve his basic skills, including health and safety, writing cover letters and completing job applications.

Over the thirteen weeks Simon was on programme, he overcame his barriers and confidence issues and achieved his long term career goal of securing permanent employment at the local council. The role allows him to use his existing skills whilst encouraging him to develop in other areas; it also enables him to work outside and mainly on his own, which he is happy about.

As well as achieving his goal, attending the programme has encouraged Simon to interact with other customers in similar positions, which has been a valuable experience for him. He is now hoping to develop his current role to achieve a more senior position.

Simon attended the TNG offices in Warrington