“This programme has been extremely helpful for me. Since the day I met Lisa she has put me at ease and made me feel comfortable. It was ok for me to be worried and upset. I never felt judged by her at all, she was ever so supportive. She helped me come out of my shell and feel able to start looking for work. Lisa helped me identify what I did and did not want to do, and came up with the perfect role for me. She helped me apply and now I am waiting to start. Lisa, and the team at Health Works for Cornwall have made a huge difference. Without Lisa’s support I wouldn’t be where I am today. I am really looking forward to starting work!”

Penny had just started to look for work again after a period of mental health concerns following a bereavement. Penny had spent 12 years caring for her husband. Supporting him throughout his illness to the end of his life, Penny made a huge difference to his everyday living, which meant a lot to her, but also meant that his passing hit her even harder.

Penny joined the Health Works programme at a time when she was lacking confidence in her abilities and unsure how to move forward. She was supported by her Change Coach, Lisa, who helped her identify her skills and find direction. Penny decided she wanted to use the skills she gained from caring for her husband, and her previous work in the care sector, to make a difference and to help others.

Penny wanted to work with people on a one-to-one basis, so that she could build good relationships and support them fully. Lisa went through Penny’s current CV with her, and together they spent time reworking it to show off Penny’s amazing skills and qualities. They also wrote a cover letter for Penny to use when applying for work.

Penny was referred for support from Digital Inclusion to help her learn how to use a laptop computer to look for work, and for personal matters such as online banking and shopping. Lisa supported Penny with looking at available jobs and introduced her to the Proud to Care website. With Lisa’s help, Penny applied for a role with Mencap as a Personal Assistant. Shortly after applying, Penny was invited for an interview – and was offered the job!!

Penny has completed the DBS check forms and will be provided with a start date once the check is complete. To begin, Penny will complete some online training for the role, which Lisa will support, as Penny feels she still needs some support with IT.

Throughout her time working with Lisa, Penny felt completely supported. There was no pressure on Penny and she felt able to take her time looking for work. She has now found the perfect role for and looks forward to being able to get out into the community, making new friends and taking part in activities with the lady she is supporting in her new role. Penny has a new sense of purpose and plans to continue working beyond retirement age, if possible.

Health Works for Cornwall is part-funded by the European Social Fund.