Helping Jennifer to realise her full time employment dream

Jennifer has always aspired to secure full time paid position and thanks to the guidance and support provided by Routes to Work, Jennifers dream has finally become a reality.

Jennifer has never let her disability hold her back, achieving part time paid employment in the past.

Jennifer, who had worked at Notcutts Garden centre for several years faced unexpected redundancy due to the impact of COVID-19. Jennifer was then referred to Routes to Work in 2021 and we provided essential guidance, resources, and encouragement, helping her navigate the job market during challenging times. Jennifer secured two part time paid positions within this time however her goal was always to look for full time hours and her Employment Officer fully supported Jennifer with this.

The team introduced to Mark Sidebottom, the CEO at World Heat in August 2024, and he has given her the chance to display her amazing skills. Jennifer is now officially a full-time operator, working as part of a small team, making the parts for electric boxes.

Mark said: “Jennifer has made great progress since working at World Heat. She is an asset to the team, and it is great to support the Routes to Work team with their clients as we are a disability friendly employer.’

When asked what she thought of working at World Heat, Jennifer said she “has really settled in well at World Heat and enjoyed being able to spend her first wage”!

Jennifers Employment Officer Abi said: “Jennifers work journey has been great to see. I am so proud to see her being able to achieve her goal. She is always a pleasure to support, and I am so proud of her accomplishment. Well done, Jennifer!”

Routes to Work is a Tameside Council funded provision aimed at anyone who, because of a disability, has struggled to access mainstream services and find employment. Through training sessions, CV workshops, volunteering opportunities and one-to-one mentoring, the programme seeks to prepare individuals for all aspects of employment from building a CV to workplace etiquette.

To find out more about the support available through the Routes to Work scheme please call 0161 342 5200 or visit www.tameside.gov.uk/supportedemployment