Michael, 46, suffered a brain haemorrhage nine years ago which left him unable to speak or walk.  Michael gradually began the long process of learning to walk and talk again and with astounding determination and his resilient attitude, he has returned to walking again and, although his speech has improved tremendously, it is still a struggle to maintain conversations with people.

Although he is eligible for disability benefit, Michael was determined that he wanted to get back to work and make a living for himself.  He joined TNG on the Flexible New Deal programme where he was able to go through the options available to him with his adviser, Brett.  Prior to the brain haemorrhage, Michael had gained numerous qualifications, including First Aid and Work, Working at Heights and Working in Enclosed Places.  He had also worked as a roofer and had been applying for jobs in the industry with no luck.  Brett encouraged him to explore other work avenues, such as security.  Michael was signposted to training opportunities, and he successfully completed a dog handling course for which he received a security certificate.

In order to gain employment in his chosen industry, Michael needed to gain his SIA certificate, which he achieved with financial assistance from TNG.  His confidence, which had been understandably low after his trauma and being out of work for nine years, began to improve with encouragement from TNG and he began to apply for security jobs.

"TNG has helped me by encouraging me with what I want to do as a job and giving me advice when I needed it – they pushed me to achieve my goals.  My adviser always had the patience to listen rather than finish my words, and it’s reassuring to know that he is only a phone call away when and if I need it."

Michael attended our offices in Rochdale