Paul, 46, from Birkenhead, joined TNG on the IAP BET programme having been unemployed for 18 months. He had experience working as a security guard and had already occupied numerous voluntary roles, including teaching sign language and working as an outreach worker for a church.

As well as getting back into employment, Paul was keen to improve his basic skills and undertake some training at TNG.

In addition to his dedicated jobsearch, Paul worked hard to achieve his City and Guild Adult Literature qualification while on programme. Having been out of work for a while, Paul’s confidence was low when he joined TNG but after gaining his qualification, his confidence grew and he was keen to get back in the workplace. A six month placement was found for Paul at ABC Together, a company which recycles cardboard and turns it into animal bedding for resale. As part of raising awareness and education about recycling across Merseyside, ABC Together recycles waste cardboard which is then shredded, chipped and dust extracted to make dust free bedding which is healthier for all animals especially horses and rats.

At the end of the six months, Paul was encouraged by his employer to apply for a full time position that was vacant, and he was successful in securing the job. Since joining ABC Together, Paul has completed a Level 2 NVQ in Health and Safety and is currently working towards an NVQ in Recycling. In addition, he is hoping to expand his skills set further by completing First Aid Training in the workplace. Not only is he thrilled to have achieved numerous qualifications over the past 12 months, but his is enjoying working at ABC Together.

Paul attended the TNG offices in Birkenhead