Jess finds dream job after rediscovering her self-worth

Jess was in training to become a dental nurse when her Fibromyalgia started to create challenges and she felt forced out.

The lasting effects of this experience affected her mental and physical health and Jess went to see her GP who referred her to IPS.

Jess describes feeling extremely anxious meeting Josie, her employment specialist, for the first time. However, after being greeted by a huge smile and big hug in a local cafe, she felt completely at ease.

Jess’ confidence was low and beyond the usual job support (CV writing, interview tips and job searching), she was encouraged to expand her journalling. Instead of just writing down the negatives, she would fill her notepad with successes and an additional column headed “what are you going to do about it?”.

This definitely helped. The new perspective made Jess feel more positive and ready to push forward to find a job. The next stage came off the back of some of Josie’s advice about spending more time on herself and creating a self-care routine. Jess had her hair cut and coloured, started a skin care routine and re-introduced colour to her wardrobe. She was reaping the benefits of looking good and feeling good.

With a fresh sense of self-worth, Jess was ready to find work. When a job as a 111 call operator appeared, Jess was determined to apply as she just wanted to help others. With a tailored CV, Jess secured an interview and got the job. In the first few weeks of working, it was clear that Jess was thriving.

With work just 8 minutes from her home, Jess says she has found not only her dream job, but a life-long career. A career she sees herself progressing in.

During her probation period, Jess smashed through her training, getting some of the highest marks in her cohort.

“I wouldn’t have the courage and confidence I do today without my now dear friend, Josie. Thank you for everything you have done for me, I will never forget it.”

Find out more about the https://shawtrust.org.uk/work-to-recovery.