A journey back to the school she loves: Ema’s story

Ema had always known she wanted to work with children. She achieved a Level 3 qualification in Childcare, began studying at the University of East Anglia (UEA), and even found her first childcare role. Her dream career had begun – but things were about to take a complicated turn…

During her first few weeks on the job, Ema was diagnosed with a non-epileptic disorder that causes blackouts. Her employer struggled to understand her condition and how to manage risks around safeguarding, and let Ema go after just one month.

Now out of work, Ema was referred to Connect to Work by her GP. She was determined to succeed, and had already lined up an interview at a local school. Her employment specialist, Katie, was on hand to support her. Katie realised that future employers needed to understand Ema’s disorder, and how to navigate safeguarding concerns. Together, they created a clear medical statement.

“Katie has been right next to me from the beginning,” Ema says. “It gave me so much confidence.”
That confidence paid off, and Ema began a role at a local nursery. In a heartwarming twist, the school is the same one she went to as a child, and holds special memories for Ema.

Reflecting on her time with Connect to Work, Ema says: “I was treated like an adult. I was supported, but things weren’t done for me.”

Today, she’s doing the work she’s always been passionate about. Better yet, she’s supporting young children in her local community, in a school she knows and loves. And with the opportunity of working with children all the way up to the age of 11, Ema is only just getting started.

Find out more about our Connect to Work programme in Norfolk, and don’t forget to read our other good news stories.