Mark is positive and understanding of my mental health

Before meeting Mark, Raya* had never been out to meet people without his mum or brother.  Mark, his dedicated Employment Specialist, encouraged Raya to look for jobs in person and online, and slowly Raya felt his confidence grow.  He is now working in his first ever job and feels so pleased to contribute financially to his family.  Raya wrote in to tell us his inspirational story, in his own words… 

Mark is really helpful and understanding and will always try to help me and motivate me. Our first meeting was scary, as I never went out to meet people without my Mum or brother. So, Mark met me and my Mother. He made me feel calm and seen and encouraged me to meet him again the following week on my own. I did this and felt my confidence grow; we went out and about talking and looking for jobs, this was scary but I did it. I overcame so many barriers and it got easier, as Mark said it would do.

He was there sometimes at the end of the phone, encouraging me and at times supporting my Mum with giving her updates on my progress. Mark helped me understand the importance of being on time, getting work fit, and dressing appropriately for interviews, always encouraging and believing in me.

Mark doesn’t ever bring me down but helps me and motivates me. He is positive and he's very understanding of my mental health. He always tries to encourage me; this has helped me gain confidence to try new things and meet new people.

Mark met me before interviews to make sure I was calm and even rehearsed interviews with me. I disclosed my mental health, and for the first time with Marks help, I was seen and heard. I am not very good with applying for online jobs especially because I’ve never gotten any response. With Marks help and support I have for the first time secured many interviews and now have got my first job at Winter Wonderland.

I'm happy to be working and to have this experience working for the first time. At times it’s really stressful for me, however the fact that I can do it and manage my stress with Mark’s help has made it easier for me to cope with.  To get a job, which is fantastic, I am now able to help my mum financially and that is really amazing.

*Names and pictures changed to protect client anonymity.