From First Steps to Flourishing: Luke’s Journey into Employment 

Luke, a 25-year-old from Medway, came to Shaw Trust looking for support to find a part-time kitchen role. Living with anxiety, depression, and an autism diagnosis, Luke faced several barriers to employment and had never held a paid job before. Although he had gained some valuable experience through volunteering in a kitchen, he lacked the confidence to take the next step into paid work.

When I first met Luke, one of his biggest concerns was how employment might affect his household benefits. The uncertainty around finances was causing significant anxiety and made him apprehensive about moving forward with a job search. Wanting to ensure Luke had all the information he needed to make informed decisions; we worked together to explore his options and build a pathway towards employment that felt safe and achievable.

A key part of Luke’s journey was helping him understand the financial impact that employment could have on his benefits. Together, we completed Better Off Calculations (BOCs) to assess how working would affect his income, and I also sought further clarification from the Lead Disability Employment Adviser (DEA) at Chatham Jobcentre to ensure Luke received accurate and personalised advice. This helped reduce some of his worries and gave him the confidence to continue exploring employment opportunities.

With no previous paid work experience, we focused on building Luke’s employability skills. We worked together to adapt and strengthen his CV, highlighting the transferable skills he had developed through his volunteering experience. I also supported him to learn how to search and apply for jobs independently, while reaching out to local employers on his behalf to identify suitable opportunities.

Alongside his job search, confidence-building was a major focus of our work together. Luke often doubted his own abilities and found unfamiliar situations challenging. Through regular support sessions, encouragement, and practical preparation, he gradually became more confident in discussing his skills and attending interviews.

I accompanied Luke to two interviews to provide support and reassurance. The first was for a kitchen role in a nursery. Upon arrival, Luke was informed that the role would occasionally require him to work in the baby room, something that had not been discussed beforehand. This unexpected information caused him considerable anxiety, but I was able to support him to remain calm and complete the interview successfully. Luke impressed the employer and was offered the position. However, after carefully considering the additional responsibilities involved, he decided the role was not the right fit for him.

Shortly afterwards, Luke secured an interview for a Catering Assistant position. This interview marked a significant turning point in his journey. The difference in Luke’s confidence was remarkable. He was more comfortable speaking about his experience, asking questions, and presenting himself professionally. Following this experience, Luke told me he felt ready to broaden his job search and was open to considering retail roles as well, providing they were within a quieter environment that suited his needs.

Through local employer engagement, I identified an opportunity with a small independent business in Rochester I contacted the owner, to discuss Luke’s skills and strengths and arranged an interview. Luke attended the interview and was successful in securing the role.

To ensure a positive start, I provided support on Luke’s first day in employment, helping to make sure appropriate adjustments were in place and that he felt comfortable in his new environment. Knowing ongoing support was available gave Luke additional reassurance as he settled into his role.

Since starting employment, Luke has gone from strength to strength. He is thriving in his position, has grown significantly in confidence, and has even requested additional hours because he enjoys the role so much. The positive feedback from his employer has been outstanding, with his manager describing Luke as the best fit for the role and expressing how pleased he was to have recruited him through the IPS service.

Luke has also shared his employment journey with Shaw Trust CEO Chris Luck, explaining that he would never have achieved this milestone without the support he received throughout the process. Today, Luke continues to engage in regular in-work support sessions, ensuring he remains successful in employment and continues developing his confidence and skills.

Watching Luke progress from someone who was anxious about entering the workplace to a valued and thriving employee has been incredibly rewarding. His journey demonstrates the impact that personalised support, employer engagement, and a belief in someone’s potential can have in helping individuals achieve outcomes they once thought were out of reach.

Find out more about our Kent and Medway IPS, and don’t forget to read our other good news stories.