From single parent to self-employment, ex-offender to beekeeper and family-carer to job seeker, nearly 1600 people in Tyne & Wear are now transforming their lives thanks to Wise Steps.
Working in collaboration with over 40 local organisations across the region, Wise Steps works with a variety of people and offers tailored one to one support from a Wise Steps coach to help participants take positive steps towards work.
Sandra, a retired chef from Sunderland, said: “My Wise Steps coach has been my saviour, helping me through a difficult time in my life. I had to give up work a few years ago after I was diagnosed with Arthritis, and it was a real shock being on benefits for the first time at 61.
“But with help from Wise Steps, I have achieved things I thought were impossible. I am now feeling positive about life and looking forward to new opportunities.”
Participants volunteer to work with a work coach and look at the personal challenges they may face in finding a job. Increasing life skills, building confidence, offering money management support and preparing participants for work are just a few examples of how Wise Steps can offer support.
Debra, a single parent from Washington, said: “I struggled to find a job that would fit in with my son’s needs. My Wise Steps coach helped me find specialist support for my son, and also helped me find new accommodation when I was left homeless after a house-fire. I could not be more thankful to Wise Steps for all the support they have given me and my son.”
Ian Coull, Programme Manager for Wise Steps, said: “With less than 400 participants left to sign up, we are proud to celebrate that over 80% of our target has been reached.
“Achieving this milestone highlights the hard work and dedication Wise Steps partners and coaches have put in over the past year, and the positive effect that Wise Steps is having on our participants’ lives. Together we have helped nearly 1600 people change their lives for the better, and that is something to be proud of.”
For more information about Wise Steps, visit www.wisesteps.org.uk.
