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Carmarthenshire Working

Case Studies

Jobs fair success – Chloe’s story

 

Picture of Chloe and Kirsty

When Chloe signed up with Carmarthenshire Working, she was working less than 16 hours with a teaching agency. She found that she was not getting consistent hours in her current role and decided that she wanted a change in career. 

Chloe was assigned to our mentor, Bethan. It was clear in the initial meeting that she was unsure what career she wanted to pursue. Bethan and Becca, our employment liaison officer, suggested that Chloe attended our Carmarthenshire Working Summer jobs fair where she could meet and discuss with 24 local employers about vacancies currently available within Carmarthenshire. 

During the event, Chloe spoke with a HR Officer within Dyfed Powys Police, who provided detailed information about the apprenticeships and job opportunities available within the force. One role stood out to Chloe, so she used this opportunity to ask further questions about how her previous experiences could link in with the role.

otivated by the conversation, Chloe applied for the discussed position. From this, she was invited to attend an interview and successfully secured the job. Chloe is now working full time within Dyfed Powys Police and is enjoying her role. 

“I just want to say thank you to Carmarthenshire Working for their support. At one of their Jobs fairs, they introduced me to Kirsty, the HR Advisor from Dyfed Powys Police. We had a chat about one of the roles they were hiring for and after learning more about it, I decided to apply. I’m happy to say I got the job and I’m really enjoying it.” - Chloe

Success through The Youth Pathway Programme

Milan standing outside Nando's restaurant in Llanelli

Milan was referred on to Carmarthenshire Working’s Youth Pathway Programme by his work coach in the job centre. The programme supports those aged 16-19 to build confidence and enhance their employability skills. 


Milan moved to Wales a few years ago. He had work experience in retail and factory work but expressed an interest in gaining employment within the hospitality sector. Whilst on the programme, Milan was able to explore what roles were available within different sectors in the local area. He was able to create an up-to-date CV and was able to learn about numerous interview techniques which he was able to put into practice during our mock interview session. Additionally, he was able to gain a better understanding of payslips and the cost of living. 


After completing the Youth Pathway Programme, Milan was enrolled on with Carmarthenshire Working and was assigned to our mentor, Emma, for one-to-one support. They began meeting regularly at the council hub to discuss what hospitality vacancies were available in the area and what hours would suit him. Emma reached out to our Employment Liaison Officer, Kristian, to contact suited employers with vacancies. Kris contacted Ross, a manager at Nandos, and sent over Milan’s CV. As a result, Milan was invited in for a trial shift and was successfully offered the job. Milan was ecstatic with the feedback he received and is now working 20 hours. 

Willow Daycare

Willow care staff with CaraWillow Daycare, a beloved childcare provider in Carmarthen, has long been committed to offering a nurturing and safe environment for children. With an increasing demand for high-quality childcare services in the area, the team at Willow Daycare recognised the opportunity for growth. In response to this potential, they applied for and successfully received a growth grant from Carmarthenshire County Council. Steve, from the business and grants team, introduced Willow daycare to Rebecca, one of the Employment Liaison Officers for Carmarthenshire working, to support with hiring more staff.

Rebecca discussed the various forms of support that Carmarthenshire Working could offer the business, including a paid work opportunity (PWO) and reimbursements for DBS costs. The PWO allows the business to receive a reimbursement for the employee’s wages at minimum wage. As a result of the grant from the Council, and the support from Carmarthenshire Working, Williow Daycare were able to take on Cara (pictured) through a 12-week paid work placement. After completing her paid placement, Willow Daycare have now taken her on as an apprentice. 

The growth grant from Carmarthenshire County Council has been instrumental in Willow Daycare’s expansion. Increased staffing has allowed Willow Daycare to meet the growing demand for services while maintaining the personalised care that families in Carmarthen value. 

Carmarthenshire Working and the council grants team have been a real asset in supporting the growth and sustainability of my Day Nursery Business in Carmarthen. It has provided a positive opportunity for potential employees to come and gain paid work experience of the Childcare Sector. This has enabled them to make an informed decision if childcare is the chosen vocation for their future employment and further education to become a qualified practitioner. I have enjoyed working alongside the Engagement team and it has truly been wonderful to support others in deciding on a career path!” 

– Bec, Willow Daycare

Sylwia's Story

Sylwia with Emma

When Sylwia was referred to Carmarthenshire Working she had been unemployed for 6 years. She had been bringing up her children and was now looking for employment that would work around her childcare. 


When Sylwia enrolled on to the project, she was supported by our mentor Emma. During their initial meeting, Sylwia expressed that she wanted a role that was permanent and offered a stable income. They began job searching and Sylwia came to the decision that the roles that would suit her best would be a teaching or catering assistant role within Carmarthenshire County Council. 


To enhance her CV, Carmarthenshire Working were able support Sylwia with funding to complete numerous courses. She completed her Teaching Assistant level 1, First Aid qualification, Cook 24 and Care 24. Throughout her time on the project, Emma was able to support Sylwia with updating her CV and regular job searches, as well as giving her a safe space to discuss any worries and give encouragement when needed.

 
As a result of her hard work and the support from Carmarthenshire Working, Sylwia is now working as a part-time catering assistant. She is thrilled to be back in employment and to have secured a job that works around her children. 

David’s Story

Left – Paul Dyer (Site Manager ) Middle – David Right – Lee (Mentor)

David was referred to Carmarthenshire Working from the job centre for support to get back into work. David had been out of employment for 6 years after suffering with his health and wellbeing. These issues restricted the amount of physical work he was able to do. As a result of this, he was struggling financially and was desperate to find work to make ends meet.

During his first meeting with our mentor, Lee, they discussed what support David wanted from the project. With his background being in construction, he wanted support to obtain skills and qualifications in this field. They discussed job opportunities that would be available in the area and put an action plan together to assist David in gaining appropriate training. Carmarthenshire Working put David through courses to gain a telehandler licence and an CSCS card and he was successful in obtaining both.

David attended regular job search meetings with Lee. During one of these sessions, he registered with Acorn Recruitment with the hope of obtaining employment at the construction site for the Wellness and Life Science Village at Pentre Awel, Llanelli.

The one-to-one mentor support and regular meetings helped David to build on his confidence, reassuring him that he would have continued support throughout his journey with Carmarthenshire Working. We were able to provide David with the financial support he needed to achieve his job goals, as well as the support with job search sessions and bringing his CV up to date. As a result of this, David secured employment with Acorn Recruitment working at the Pentre Awel site in Llanelli. David has now been in employment at Pentre Awel for 7 months. He is thoroughly enjoying his role and has been described as an asset to the team and a hard worker.

Angel's Story

Photo of Angel and Rhianon

Angel first heard about Carmarthenshire Working when he read one of our good news stories. He decided to visit the council HUB to enquire if we offered any courses that could help him into employment. After discussing how the project could provide support, Angel signed up with Carmarthenshire Working and was assigned to one of our mentors, Rhianon.  

Although educated to degree level, Angel had worked a number of manual jobs, including meat packing and farm work in Eastern Europe. During his time as a production worker, he was promoted and delivered inductions to new staff. The skills he learned in this role sparked an interest in exploring jobs in the education sector and got him thinking if it would be possible to become a teaching or learning assistant. 

Whilst Angel was on the project, he completed many online courses and was given support to put together a CV. He attended weekly job search sessions with Rhianon where they researched what teaching agencies were in the local area. Each agency had different criteria, so they spent time navigating these to get the best possible outcome. 

In the meantime, to improve Angel’s spoken and written English, Rhianon introduced him to different provisions in the local area. As Angel had a degree in theatre and film, Rhianon took him down to join the Ambassador Programme at Ffwrnes Theatre as a volunteer where his role involved doing meet and greets. Rhianon also introduced him to The Good Shed where he enrolled on to a GCSE English course. Angel thoroughly enjoyed this course and found that his confidence increased dramatically. He was even asked to lead on some of the lessons. 

“As soon as Angel arrived at my English class, it was clear that he was very determined to achieve his goal of working in education. The difficulty for him, as for many students from other countries, was that he lacked the requisite British qualifications.  Luckily, he was supported in finding his way to The Goods Shed where we were able to help him to progress.

Miraculously, he not only succeeded in gaining a GCSE in English, but he achieved an A grade, which is extremely rare for a student who is not a first language English speaker: outstanding!” – Caroline (English GCSE Course Lead).

As a result of his dedication and hard work, Angel signed up with Prospero Teaching and was given a 2-week placement as a teaching assistant in a local primary school. From this, he was offered a long-term placement in another school and has now been in employment for over 12 months. He is enjoying his role as a teaching assistant so much he is wanting to train to become a teacher.   

Samantha’s Story

Samantha Davies with Coracle coaches staff

Samantha was referred to Carmarthenshire Working from the job centre and was paired with our mentor, Bethan. During their initial meeting, Samantha informed Bethan that she had a HGV licence and was looking for support in finding a driving job. As a single mother to young children, it was important that she found a job that would accommodate the hours she was available to work. Samantha started attended weekly meetings with Bethan where she was supported with job searching and with her CV.   

In the meantime, Bethan approached our Employment Liaison Officer, Becca, to see if any business were looking for staff with Samantha’s skills and qualifications. Becca reached out to Coracle Coaches, who informed her that they had a vacancy that could be suitable for her. After meeting, both were happy to continue on the basis that Samantha obtained a PSV licence. To support both Samantha and the business, Carmarthenshire Working offered to reimburse Coracle Coaches for the cost of Samantha’s course. 

Samantha was successful in gaining the licence and was given a start date shortly after. She has now been in employment for over a year and is looking to progress by doing a manager’s course. 

“I got introduced to Carmarthenshire Working through the Jobcentre after having no success finding a HGV job after passing my test. With the help from the staff at Carmarthenshire Working they found me a role with Coracle Coaches. After attending my interview and speaking to the Employer, with support from Becca, we came away with a contract that fitted around me and my family. We then set about gaining the PSV training needed to do the role. The support I had from all the staff was second to none, they were always at the end of the phone when I needed them or available in the HWB for me to pop in and see them. We had a few set backs along the way dealing with outside companies and I felt like giving up but they kept me motivated and reminded me why I wanted to do this. They were a pleasure to deal with and I would highly recommend their help to anyone looking for work.

I wanted to message and say thanks again to you all. I have just done my first tour by myself over Christmas and I’d have never of got to where I am today without your help and support and believing in me. Thank you. ~Samantha

“Since Carmarthenshire Working approached us regarding Samantha, we found working with them straightforward and smooth. We managed to get Samantha who was very keen to learn and enthusiastic booked in for her lessons. These went very well and as a result she passed all her theory and practical tests with flying colours. Since passing, Samantha has settled into her new role as a school bus driver and seems to be enjoying her employment with us. We would recommend Carmarthenshire Working to businesses looking to recruit staff.”  ~Coracle Coaches

Nataliia’s Story

Photo of Nataliia and Carmarthenshire working staff member Bethan

“When I moved to the UK alone with my three children, I had no professional contacts, no local work experience, and no confidence. My biggest challenge was the language—I worried that my English wasn’t good enough to compete in the job market. Cultural differences in work styles and hiring processes also seemed difficult to understand.

Working with Carmarthenshire Working’s mentor Bethan gave me incredible support. First, my CV was shared with agencies, which increased my chances of finding a job. Second, I was able to attend a Job Fair and speak directly with employers. But the most important thing—I gained confidence.

Weekly meetings with Bethan became a safe place where I could share my successes and struggles, get useful advice, and feel supported. This helped me overcome my fears and believe that I could build a career in a new country.

Today, I work as a Product Manager in a fast-growing fintech start-up expanding in the UK and the EU. This dynamic and ambitious environment is the perfect place for my professional growth.

The support I received inspired me to set new goals. The UK has given me and my children safety, and now I want to give back by using my skills and experience. I am considering starting my own organization to bring modern technology into the charity sector, helping non-profits become more effective.

This journey has shown me that anything is possible when you have people who believe in you and are ready to help.”

Success though The Youth Pathway Programme - JC's Story

JC was referred on to our Youth Pathway Programme by the job centre. The programme supports those aged 16-19 to build confidence and enhance their employability skills. Whilst on the programme, JC was able to gain a better understanding of structuring a CV, preparing for interviews, payslips, and the cost of living. At the end of the programme, JC took part in our mock interview session, and it was clear to see that his confidence had increased dramatically.

After completing the programme, JC was enrolled on with Carmarthenshire Working and assigned to our mentor, Lee. JC expressed that although he had never worked, he had gained some hands-on experience in mechanics and developed a strong understanding of automotive systems. JC was interested in exploring a role in car sales or in customer service. His long-term goal was to go back to college to study a Business Management course but firstly wanted to gain some work experience. Lee created an action plan to support JC into employment. They began meeting regularly, where Lee supported with job searching and updating JC’s CV. Kristian, one of our Employment Liaison Officers, encouraged JC to attend a jobs fair where he would have the opportunity to discuss live vacancies with local employers. Whilst at the jobs fair, JC spoke with a representative from Park Dean Resort who were advertising their hospitality roles. After this discussion, JC applied for the role and was invited for an interview. Using the skills he learned on the Youth Pathway Programme; JC had a great interview and was successful in getting the job. JC is thoroughly enjoying the role at Park Dean and is looking forward to the opportunities he will have after completing a Business Management course.

MJ's Story

Picture of Addysg Seren Education and Rebecca

MJ was first known to Carmarthenshire Working when they attended our Spring Jobs Fair in March 2024. She had been looking for work since November but was unsuccessful in her search. Our event gave MJ the opportunity to see what vacancies were available in Carmarthenshire and gave her a chance to discuss with employers, face to face, about each role. Whilst exploring these opportunities MJ came across Addysg Seren’s stall. Addysg Seren is a teacher recruitment agency that offer supply teaching for primary, secondary and SEN schools. After discussing what roles were available, MJ expressed an interest to sign up. Shortly after the event, MJ was invited down to their Carmarthen Office to sign up as a teaching assistant. A couple of days after all checks were completed, MJ was offered a placement in a local Primary School. This role provided the flexibility that MJ needed, and she is now in regular work.

Feedback from MJ:

“I'm emailing to inform you how successful the Spring jobs fair was for me on the 7th of March. I found employment with Addysg Seren Education because of your event. I had been unsuccessful in my job search since November last year and was honestly losing hope. I would never have thought to seek out work with Addysg Seren so I am very thankful I attended your event that day”.

Feedback from Addysg Seren Education:

“We met (MJ) at an arranged job fair in Carmarthen and it was evident that (MJ) had lacked hope in securing a job at all, let alone one they longed to do. After spending time with (MJ) and explaining what our company does and how we can help get work as a supply teaching assistant. (MJ) listened with interest and was keen to know how to move forward with joining us. Very soon after the job fair event, (MJ) came into our Carmarthen office and registered with us. Once all compliant checks were done, (MJ) was ready for work and a day or two later (MJ) was offered their first placement at a local primary school. Form this day, (MJ) has been working almost every day, beside the days they had informed us they could not work, and they have found themselves in a school where they are frequently asked back. 

We've noticed such a positive change in (MJ) since meeting them for the first time. It's evident that their experience with us has given them confidence and enjoyment. The feedback we get from our client’s school are always positive. We're so pleased to be part of their journey into employment”.

SC’s Story

SC read about Carmarthenshire Working online and made a self-referral as they wanted support to get into work. They were new to the country and felt isolated as they didn’t know many people in the area. SC was paired with our mentor, Emma. 

Emma arranged for SC to meet her at the council hub to discuss what support they needed to gain employment and what roles would be best suited. They were very open to applying for roles in different sectors. Emma could see that SC lacked a lot in confidence, so began meeting regularly to support with job searches and CV writing. Additionally, Emma decided to put SC on a confidence course organised by Carmarthenshire Working.

Although attending the course took SC out of their comfort zone, they found it extremely beneficial and thought it was great to meet new people in the area. The training spurred SC on to apply for more jobs in different sectors. From this, they were invited for an interview for a role in the care sector and was successful in getting the job. With the support from Emma and the confidence gained from the project, SC is now employed as a full-time carer in a local care home. 

Lewis' Story

Photo of Lewis, John and Zara

Lewis was referred to Carmarthenshire Working by Mencap, an organisation that supports individuals with learning disabilities.

Lewis showed an interest in gaining employment and was paired with John, one of Carmarthenshire Working’s mentors. On initial contact, it was apparent that Lewis lacked in confidence, especially when undertaking tasks out of his comfort zone. He struggled with weekly face-to-face interaction, so John adapted his approach and began telephone interactions which worked well for Lewis.

To develop Lewis’ personal skills and to build on his CV, John offered him a place on an Emergency First Aid at Work course. He reluctantly agreed as he would be attending the course with individuals he wasn’t familiar with. A few days prior to the course, John contacted Lewis to explain the procedure of the day. It was clear to hear on the phone that Lewis felt a lot of doubt and anxiety about attending the course due to being in a group setting. Shortly after, John received a call from Zara, Lewis’ Mencap mentor, explaining that he was having second thoughts about attending the course. To help put Lewis’ mind at ease, John and Zara agreed to meet him on the day of the course to provide support when Lewis felt like he needed it. Once Lewis was comfortable, he was able to complete parts of the course independently.

With Lewis’ determination and the support from John and Zara, he was able to overcome his barrier of being in a group setting and walk out at the end of the day smiling with a new qualification to add to his CV.

 

MR's Story

MR was referred to Carmarthenshire Working from Careers Wales. When MR was signed up with us, she was already working 5 hours a week as a lunchtime supervisor but wanted to increase her hours. 


MR was paired up with our mentor, Bethan. Although at the start MR was anxious to attend their meetings, she built up a great relationship with Bethan and showed commitment to the project, meeting regularly in the hwb, engaging in all meetings and taking part in our job search group sessions. 


MR wanted a job that suited her childcare needs. Bethan highlighted different roles available within school hours that would support this. To enhance MR’s CV, Carmarthenshire Working were able to fund MR to complete a food hygiene course. Additionally, she used her own initiative and completed numerous courses with Learn Direct. 


During a job search session, Bethan supported MR to fill in job applications for roles within schools. As a result of MR’s hard work and the support from Bethan, she was successful in gaining employment and is now working over 20 hours as a breakfast supervisor, lunchtime assistant and after school assistant.

Aled's Success Story

Aled and John

Aled signed up with Carmarthenshire Working after being made redundant from his job. He was paired with our Mentor, John, who set up an action plan to support him back into employment. Aled enjoyed working and was determined to get back into work. As he was open to applying for roles in different sectors, John supported him with creating a CV that tailored to each role. To add to Aled’s CV, John had registered him to do a First Aid at Work course which he was successful in completing. Aled also took the initiative and completed multiple courses with Learn Direct in food safety, IT, health and safety, manual handling, and more.

Aled showed great commitment to the project. He met regularly with John at the hub, engaged in our weekly job search group sessions and attended our job fairs where he had the opportunity to speak to employers that had vacancies within Carmarthenshire. During one of our job search sessions, Aled saw that a post had come up within his old department. With John’s support, Aled applied for the post and was invited for an interview. He was successful in getting the job and is now ecstatic to be back working full time.

 

Hwb