Layla

WHAT SITUATION WERE YOU IN BEFORE YOU STARTED WITH US?

I had recently become unemployed and was finding it hard to get back into work due to the Pandemic, facing a lot of competition for jobs. At first, I wanted to use my time during my unemployment to upskill so decided to undertake Common Health Conditions and Mental Health, both of which would be useful for getting back into the health sector.

I also wanted to explore my options and started reflecting on whether I wanted to go back into my old employment (pharmacy work) or find something new in the creative sector. Because of this, I started Creating a Business Start Up.

WHAT SUPPORT DID YOU GET FROM US?

Through the Healthcare Horizons programme, I was provided with support from an employment advisor. Together we worked on my supporting statements and a job application for a Nursing role. The course also gave me advice on NHS values, employability skills and interview tips.

Aledina, the training manager, introduced me to Caroline who works at Poplar Works. Caroline has introduced me to a range of options available to me and networks that I can use if I want to go into a creative role or run my own business. I have also been added onto a mailing list to receive internal NHS vacancies.

The teachers went through the courses well and broke things down well, so I was able to understand even though I started the courses with no knowledge.

WHERE ARE YOU NOW AND HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT IT?

I have completed and achieved three qualifications – Common Health Conditions, Creating a Business Start Up and Awareness of Mental Health problems. I have had several interviews for NHS jobs and am going to having a meeting to visit Poplar Works and look at the studios there.

These courses, particularly CBS, have improved my confidence and helped put me on the right track. I have gained more knowledge of health conditions and mental health, regulations and how to run a business.

All the courses were good and gave a good eye opener. Common Health Conditions and Mental Health have given me more information about my previous work and will help if I want to go back into that. Creating a Business Start Up has started me on a new path, helping me discover what I really want to do.

With Caroline’s help, who Aledina introduced me to, I have started to overcome my fear of having a business and the fear of failure. I have started to get away from the mindset of ‘don’t do this’, ‘I can’t do this’.

I have got more confidence and am eager to carry on with this path. I believe I am on the right path, and have already started doing more courses like a course in pattern cutting.”

If you’re interested in doing a course with us, you can contact us on:
Tel: 020 7510 9770
Email: Thehivetraining@poplarharca.co.uk

Our training is funded by the Mayor of London and the European Social Fund.