Andrew accessed on-the-job training

Andrew is an unaid carer who was supported back into a post with on-the-job training.

About Andrew

Andrew is 28 and has been caring for his mother who has sickle cell disease. His mother has chronic pain, diabetes and necrosis. She uses a walking stick and a wheelchair and needs a stair lift at home. Andrew’s caring tasks included helping his mother to bath, with her mobility and collecting her medication, as well as cooking and other family support.

This has meant that Andrew has struggled and was unable to complete the further education course he hoped would lead into an illustration/animation career.

How did Working for Carers help?

Andrew joined the Working for Carers project in April 2017 after his mother’s health improved and he was able to devote time to concentrating on his career. During his first few one-to-one sessions his employment personal advisor identified Andrew’s interest in Business Administration. But Andrew lacked self-confidence in entering a working environment and with promoting his skills effectively when applying for jobs.

But after the initial assessment, and with support, Andrew was able to start seeking employment. He worked with his advisor on skills identification and the art of selling himself effectively through his CV and cover letter.

Andrew and his advisor also identified that Andrew would benefit from a role which gave him on-the-job training. So, he applied for local apprenticeships and internships as he wanted to remain within easy travel distance should his mother fall unwell. While applying for roles, Andrew also volunteered at his local carer centre as a receptionist to help familiarise himself with Microsoft office, client interaction via phone and in person, and to build his confidence.

What was the result?

After volunteering, Andrew was offered the opportunity to apply for an apprentice administrator role. He prepared for his interview with his advisor and shortly afterwards was awarded the position.

During the first few months of his employment Andrew and his employment advisor had regular meetings to discuss his progress, how he was settling into the role and how to maintain a balance between work and personal life.

About Working for Carers

Working for Carers ran between October 2016 and June 2023 and was funded by the European Social Fund and The National Lottery Community Fund. The project supported unpaid carers in London to move into or closer to employment.