CSW Health Works for Cornwall has supported Lorraine to overcome many barriers and find employment as a school cleaner, a role that fits well around her family commitments. Nikki her Change Coach helped Lorraine to understand the ”Better Off” calculation and how she would be financially better off by working and how to claim for childcare cost.

When Lorraine signed up to the HWC project, Lorraine had been unemployed for seventeen years and was a single parent to two children who were sixteen and seven. Lorraine was feeling anxious about a return to the workplace and needed to carefully consider job roles, due to limited hearing in one ear. Lorraine’s job interests included working as a Teaching Assistant, but Lorraine was also interested in working in hospitality and would consider other roles. The main concern Lorraine had around a return to work was childcare for her seven year old daughter, especially during the summer holidays. Lorraine had also advised that she found it difficult to manage her money.

Lorraine’s Change Coach also supported her to review her finances and budgeting, and through this advised Lorraine of the Work Allowance and Flexible Support Fund which meant that she would be better off in work and would also receive support with childcare costs.

Through the support Lorraine has received from her Change Coach, including CV work, reviewing her finances and budgeting and a health assessment, Lorraine has exited the project as employed which she has sustained since April 2021.

“What an amazing year it has been, I had been out of work for 17 years, when they said I had the job I felt amazing.  Nikki has helped me get childcare costs, sort childcare and lots more.  If it was not for Nikki and this project I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

If you are unemployed or inactive, 16+, with a health condition and live in the Atlantic & Moor area; we can support you to positively progress in your life into employment. Please call Nikki on 07909 933721 nicola.speer@cswgroup.co.uk or Jennie 07786 171218 jennie.lacey@cswgroup.co.uk

ENDS
The Health Works for Cornwall project is part funded by the European Social Fund, with Cornwall Council being principal match funders. The aim of the project to support 5500 residents of Cornwall and the Isles of Scillies, who are out of work and have a health-related barrier to employment to move closer towards or into employment.