Nick's getting support at work*

Nick's story

Through his determination, Nicholas was able to overcome barriers caused by mental ill health to find work but his Twining Employment Specialist didn't stop supporting him then...

As I began to work at the Furniture Repair shop, sometimes a customer would ask me to check if we had something in the stock room.

But I found that when I got back, I would forget what the customer looked like and I would feel embarrassed.

I told my Employment Specialist and she suggested making a brief description of the customer, without being rude, as well as jotting down what they wanted. I tried this and it definitely helped!

There was also a period when I had to help cover staff leave, which meant that I had to work three days as opposed to two. I found this very difficult as my sleep pattern was out of sync. My college attendance was affected too; I was too exhausted and missed days. I spoke to my Employment Specialist who encouraged me to speak to my manager.I had already disclosed to him that I had a health condition. I approached my manager and he was very understanding; I was put back to my original shifts of two days and saw a significant improvement.  

I thought having a mental health condition would restrict me from choices and I had to take what I was given.

My Employment Specialist has been a great help to me - giving me advice and guidance but also the choice to make my own decisions. I think this has been the biggest factor, as I used to feel like choices were a luxury I didn't have.

*This person has chosen not to share their real name and image. Image from Peter ShanksCopyright protected. 

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