A former nanny has swapped looking after children for a job protecting their future health, thanks to help from Ingeus.
Vania Lourenco was a nanny after she moved to the UK from Portugal in 2005. But the 40-year-old from north London wanted a career change.
After five years studying part time with The Open University, she was armed with a Batchelor of Science degree, but no clue what to do next.
She was referred by Jobcentre Plus to Ingeus employment coach Monica Mundo and the CLW WHP JETS programme.
“I didn't know what jobs to apply for, I was overwhelmed,” said Vania. “I didn't want to be locked in an office and I still loved working with children.
“Monica was amazing, even on the days I felt so down, she gave me strength and ideas. She helped me rewrite my CV and sent me interview advice. I also found the Ingeus online iWorks system very helpful.”
Vania was soon granted an interview where she beat off competition from 150 applicants to secure her new role as a school data administrator, helping to deliver vaccines to hundreds of pupils at their schools.
“I couldn't believe it when I got the job,” she added. “I am so happy and so grateful to Monica and the JETS programme.”
Central London Works, Work and Health Programme Job Entry Targeted Support (CLW WHP JETS) gives targeted employment support to Central London residents affected by the pandemic. A combination of one-to-one support and online resources give unemployed people practical help to get back to work quickly.
Central London Works is delivered by Ingeus and commissioned by Central London Forward.