Ceredigion employment project helps to land Calvin into life changing job
Calvin, a 26-year-old from Aberystwyth, has received support to gain employment through the Local Supported Employment (LSE) programme. Calvin relocated to the area in 2022 from London to care for a friend and had been unemployed since the move. In November 2023 he was referred to the Employability Support Team and introduced to his mentor Misha.
When Calvin joined the LSE programme it was apparent that he was able to independently apply for jobs, but really appreciated the additional 1:1 support. He received support to enhance his applications when it came to making his CV stand out, writing cover letters, interview skills and tips and support during his consistent meetings with Misha, his employment mentor.
Misha recommended that he attended an upskilling course delivered by the Employability Support Team whilst job searching. Calvin was able to successfully complete a ‘Hospitality’ course in partnership with local businesses which went straight onto his CV.
Calvin continued to work with Misha on his job seeking journey and with her support has found the right job with the perfect employer. The full time job has given Calvin financial security and a routine which has also helped him move into a shared flat, with the intention to save money to move into his own flat in the future.
Calvin said: “This project has not only helped me gain employment at an amazing workplace, it has also helped me come to terms and understanding of my Autism. Without the support I wouldn’t have had the opportunities to meet others like me. The opportunities ranged from the hospitality course to a newly opened Autism group in Aberystwyth. My wonderful mentor, Misha, helped me through this ‘dark path’ and had shone the light while helping me not only with gaining employment but in getting a better understanding of my Autism. If I had the opportunity to turn back time and pick a different path, I would still choose this one. Misha and this project have made my mind and my future just that bit clearer.”
Calvin’s employer Darren from Timpson said: “Calvin is a fantastic team member, and we can't thank Misha enough for supporting Calvin and us by providing us with guidance to best support Calvin in his employment. Calvin is thriving and it’s great to have him on the team”.
John Galbraith from Job Centre Plus said: “This is yet another example of LSE and Ceredigion County Council successfully working collaboratively with Job Centre Plus in supporting people into work. Had Misha not seen the advert for the vacancy sent out by the work coaches and third parties, she would not have known about it and Calvin might have missed out of this opportunity”.
Ceredigion Councillor Wyn Thomas, Cabinet Member for Schools and Through Age Learning said: “The Local Supported Employment team does important work which gives employment opportunities to Ceredigion residents. I’m proud to see great co-operation between the service, Job Centre Plus, and the employer which have enabled Calvin to get this opportunity. Congratulations Calvin!”.
In 2024, the Employability Support Team has supported over 300 unemployed residents of Ceredigion to seek employment opportunities, with 40 of these being supported as part of the Local Supported Employment Scheme (LSE).
Support is provided locally by Ceredigion County Council's Employability Support Team through the Local Supported Employment scheme. The scheme is funded by the Department for Work and Pensions in partnership with Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire, and Carmarthenshire County Councils. The project provides support for people aged 16 and up who have a learning disability, or autism to support them in securing sustainable employment.
To find out more about the services we provide in Ceredigion, email TCC-EST@ceredigion.gov.uk or call 01970 633422. You can also keep up to date by following our social media channels: Cymorth Gwaith Ceredigion Work Support on Facebook and @CymorthGwaithCeredWorkSupport on Instagram.