Employment Related Services Association (ERSA) Employability Awards 2025
The ERSA Employability Awards give people in the sector a chance to show what they do, share ideas, and receive recognition for their hard work and partnerships. Its Outstanding Participant award recognises a person who’s overcome significant personal and/or social barriers to find and maintain work.
Shaw Trust nominated one of our Kent and Medway IPS clients, Jamie Walker, for this very award. Jamie was successfully shortlisted and attended the awards evening in November 2025, along with his Employment Specialist: Eni Silveira, Managing Director of Work, Wellbeing and Health: David Harper, and our Shaw Trust CEO: Chris Luck.
While Jamie sadly didn’t win, he was recognised as a finalist, and the whole team is incredibly proud of his journey and advocacy – particularly with mental health.
Jamie shortlisted for ersa awards
Award Nomination: Jamie – A Journey of recovery and purpose
Jamie’s story is one of remarkable transformation and resilience. It’s a testament to the power of hope, perseverance, and the will to rebuild a life that seemed shattered.
At 50 years old, Jamie’s life had been successful, earning close to six figures. Then, following a diagnosis of psychosis, his world changed dramatically. Within just a few years, Jamie faced what he called a ‘tsunami’ of personal challenges: the collapse of his business during Covid, separation from his wife, the loss of his mother, and a late ADHD diagnosis. These events led to drug and alcohol dependence and two suicide attempts, as he struggled to cope.
Yet Jamie’s breakdown became the turning point. With support from the Early Intervention in Psychosis (EIP) team, he began a courageous journey of recovery, focusing on his mental health and rediscovering purpose. In February 2023, Jamie joined the Shaw Trust Kent and Medway IPS programme, determined to use his lived experience to inspire others.
While exploring career options, Jamie uncovered a long-held dream: acting. For him, it was more than a profession – it was a way to tell stories that matter and offer hope. He got an Equity card, secured an agent, and connected with industry professionals. His first acting role in a short film was followed by a powerful advert with CALM, where he shared his story to help others.
Today, Jamie is 2.5 years sober, after journeying from addiction to advocacy. Having shared his story to media like Channel 4, BBC News, and the Daily Telegraph, he continues to inspire others and show that with the right support, there is a way forwards.