Linda had always worked since leaving school in 1986, but found herself unemployed just after lockdown started in April last year.

She joined the Bridge programme for support and advice to get back into work and was assigned her Bridge Worker Sheena for one to one support.

“My Case Worker Sheena was outstanding. I couldn’t have asked for a better person to be assigned to. She boosted my already growing confidence a hundredfold. Sheena sent me regular information regarding local jobs she knew fitted my skills and qualifications. If ever I needed any help looking for courses which may benefit me in the future, Sheena always managed to come up with a plethora of information for reference.

Linda signed up for training courses including a City and Guilds in Employability and Customer Service, then security guard qualifications. The courses were carried out through video call meetings and distance learning, and she passed all her exams.

“I never felt I was alone in my search for work or reference material to benefit me in future potential roles, as Sheena was always just a telephone call or an email away. I’ve felt very blessed to have had her ‘walking along beside me’, supporting me. In future, whoever is placed with Sheena will be very lucky.”

Linda has been guaranteed an interview with a local security firm and is due another interview shortly.

Good luck from all the team at Bridge Northumberland Linda!