Black Country Impact case studies

DB's story

“DB” was referred by Bayard Job Centre to Impact Advisor Anne Webb, who started the enrolment process for the Impact programme. “DB” was impressed with the benefits of the Impact programme, and Anne supported with researching employers, recruitment agencies and uploading CV’s on to various websites.

During the enrolment, it was identified that “DB” has a BTEC Level 3 in Graphic Design and has aspirations in becoming a Graphic Designer. “DB” felt as it was difficult to find opportunities in this field and there was a lack of jobs locally.

Whilst on programme, “DB” was given support by Anne for the creation of a customised CV aimed at different aspirations, as well as given information of different recruitment agencies to register with. “DB” was also supported with regular contact with Anne, encouraging “DB” to apply for jobs and increasing his confidence in his skills and CV.

“DB” eventually found a role through the recruitment agency People Solutions for an Apprenticeship in Creative Marketing. This is a great way to get into creative industries, and “DB” will be supported by Anne post-Impact to ensure “DB” is happy and progressing towards his career goals.

M's story

“M” was a referral from Blakenall Sure Start, from support worker AW. When Karen met with “M”, she completed the enrolment to the Impact Programme and started work on her Individual Development Plan, identifying her future career ambitions and any challenges that Impact can help with.

It was learnt that “M” had high grades in English and Maths, and that her hobbies included art and music. Previously, she did work experience for 6 months and also working at a tattoo shop for around 5 months.

Unfortunately, it was identified that “M” also had a history of mental health problems, self-harming and also had been a heavy drinker. Upon enrolment to the Impact programme, she stated this has been less of a problem, however a referral was made to The Beacon for additional support, alongside NHS support for medication.

When looking at potential career paths, “M” was very interested in courses involving her interests in tattooing and art design. Karen started work on finding some relevant courses for “M” to attend, based on her interests.

Sadly, during her time on programme, she had a number of complications involving family and relapsing into self-harm, resulting in “M” being taken to hospital.

As she progressed on the programme and worked with Karen on her career goals, Karen contacted Pathway Group who offered a Traineeship in customer service, working within a tattoo shop. Following a successful interview, she started her placement and found it really enjoyable once settled into the new role. “M” also signed up to Walsall College, looking to do a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art & Design.

Home life and mental health issues also started to improve, as “M” continued her support with the various support services as referred to at the start of the programme. “M” was sad that she was leaving the Impact programme upon gaining her Traineeship, but she is able to contact Karen and the Impact team at any time to let us know how she’s doing and if there’s anything else Impact can help with!

Z's story

Z signed up to Impact in July 2021 after being referred by her social worker. Z had been taken into the care of Wolverhampton local authority due to a police investigation in January 2021 and had been moved to live with her uncle in the Walsall area after a couple of different foster placements had broken down. Z was under police bail conditions which meant that she could not live or go into the Wolverhampton area whilst the investigation was taking place.

Z had been out of education for 12 months and before that had a very bad experience of education whilst at school. Z has learning difficulties and was diagnosed with dyslexia at a very late stage of her time at school.

Due to this Z didn’t feel that she got the help and support she needed with her learning and became bored and frustrated which led to her attendance becoming very poor in the last 2 years of being at school. Due to this Z did not take any examinations or gain any qualifications as she had not done the work required.

I was told by her uncle that Z was very shy, not used to a lot of social contact and would find it difficult to come to see me face to face on her own so for her first meeting she came with her uncle’s partner. Z engaged well during that first session with me and from there onwards Z felt comfortable enough to attend all of her other meetings with me by herself.

Z’s first priority was to gain a Maths and English qualification as she was aware that these were key to gaining any job, further education and training in her future. After giving her some careers guidance, we also looked at vocational areas she might like to do alongside the Maths and English and identified a keen interest in catering as a future potential career.

I made a referral to Walsall College for the Level 1 Cooking Skills course and when Z was offered an interview, she didn’t feel confident enough to go by herself to a new place and meet new people and her uncle was unable to go with her, so I offered to go with her for support. The interview with the tutor went well but because Z was under police bail a further safeguarding meeting had been arranged to look into this further to see if the college could accommodate the bail conditions.

When this meeting was arranged again her uncle was not available to go with her, so I accompanied Z to this meeting as well to make sure that Zoe felt confident enough to attend as she felt nervous about this meeting. Whilst there I was able to advocate on Z’s behalf to ensure she would receive the support needed for her learning difficulties and dyslexia so that she had a more positive experience of education this time, as well as support to help Z with social and emotional concerns.

When Z had her invite to enrol at the college she asked if I would go with her which I did and guided her through the whole process. At the enrolment there was another student there who was just about to start the same course so I engaged her in conversation too whilst we were waiting so that Z would recognise someone on her course.

The tutor arranged for both of them to meet him in reception on their first morning which they did, and they have since become friends which again is a huge achievement for Z as she’d told me she’d never been able to make friends at school.

Part of the course required Z to have a chef’s uniform and kitchen equipment including a set of knives at the cost of £144. Z was unable to pay for this herself, so I discussed this with the Impact PM team and was able to get the funding for both approved before Z started college on the 27th of September.

Z is attending Walsall College on the Level 1 Cooking Skills so is now exited from Impact, but she does still drop in to see me sometimes during her lunchtime to let me know how she is and how she’s getting on at college.

Z gets the learning support she needs at college so learning for Z has become a much more confident learner and is enjoying learning new things. Z also has time with a counsellor that she can go to, to discuss any social and emotional issues she may have to keep her on track.

Rachael Maybank – Impact Advisor

TJ's story

TJ was a referral from Walsall Probation. His Probation Officer had referred young people in the past and had a great impression of Impact due to the previous young people that Aaron had supported into employment and training. Aaron met the young person face to face at the Walsall Probation Office.

Aaron asked the young person to be as open and honest as he could so that Aaron could support him to the best of his ability. TJ said that he had never been to prison before and did not want to enter a prison, saying that he had young children that he needed to be there for.

TJ said that he is on a probation license for two years and must do 200 hours of community service. He said that he was caught by the Police driving with no license, resulting in a police chase and ended with him being arrested.

TJ was now classed as an ex-offender with a conviction on his DBS. He knew that applying for jobs would now be a difficult task due to employer prejudice.

TJ said that he was interested in a career in construction. Aaron spoke to TJ about the various construction pathways and mentioned that he would need his CSCS card as this was the minimal requirement when entering the construction sector. TJ said that this would be fine and said that he would also be interested in gaining his roller and dumper license too.

Aaron contacted RMF (construction training provider) as they have had an upcoming combination course starting which included the CSCS card, dumper and roller license.

TJ was due to start the construction training, however, due to his financial situation, he contacted Aaron to explain that he was struggling as he had his partner and children to financially support. He said that he would have to leave the training and that if it was possible, to get employment support as soon as.

Aaron said that this was fine and that he understands that circumstances change. Aaron wanted to act quickly to get TJ’s CV ready to send off for jobs, as he is too familiar with recidivism amongst young ex-offenders with the main reason being due to financial situations. 

The main barrier that TJ was faced with when applying for jobs was his criminal record as he would have to disclose this to employers who asked. He previously said that he would like a job with mechanics/vehicles in his Individual Development Plan.

Just at the right time, Aaron had an email from his colleague Rob Beck. Rob had been in touch with an employer who was interested in employing ex-offenders. The company is a well-established vehicle recycling company with 19 sites based around the UK, with one in Wednesbury.

Aaron spoke to TJ about this job, making TJ really interested and said that he would like to apply. The only offences that the company said that they would not consider were sex and arson offenders. TJ didn’t have any of these offences so was happy to proceed with applying.

The employer also specified that they would carry out a drugs and alcohol test for any successful candidates. Aaron had an open discussion with TJ about this, explaining that TJ should be honest and let Aaron know whether he has used any drugs recently. TJ said that he had used cannabis in the past but was clean now. 

Aaron took TJ’s word for this but explained that the employer would not employ TJ if he did not pass a drugs and alcohol test due to health and safety. Aaron also explained that this could further impact on whether or not the employer would give Aaron’s other ex-offenders the opportunity in the future too.

Aaron submitted TJ’s updated CV to Rob, who forwarded this onto the employer. TJ was offered a telephone interview. This was a success, and he was called into the office for a face-to-face interview.

TJ said that the interview went really well, and he was offered the job as an Export Operative with the recycling company. TJ also passed his drug and alcohol test. He said that he is very excited to start work and is looking forward to the opportunity. TJ was also supported with a 20-day bus pass via Impact to help with traveling to and from his new job.

TJ can now be the hardworking family man that he wanted to become. He can be there financially for his children and partner. More than anything, due to him working, he will hopefully keep crime free, living a more positive and happier path.

RM's story

“RM”, a Universal Credit Claimant from Bridle JCP was referred to Black Country Impact after his Work Coach referred him. “RM” has been out of work for almost 2 years due to bad experience with a former employer. “RM” has an aspiration to work for himself and his prior attainment was a Level 2 in PE and IT.

To date, “RM” has been supported with IAG in regards self-employment. We have explored various business ideas and the pros and cons of self-employment. “RM” has identified a gap in the market with working with Epoxy Resin. His idea is to use natural cuts of wood and epoxy resin to make high end highly finished chopping boards.

We have arranged virtual online self-employment training with Kick Off in Business which he found very useful. We have also supported “RM” to access an Epoxy Resin Course with Jenflow Systems which gave him the much-needed industry standard and practical knowledge and understanding of how to work with epoxy resin. We have also liaised with JCP for “RM” to start the New Enterprise Allowance where he has had the support to thoroughly review and create a Business Plan. We have also purchased a large amount of Epoxy Resin for “RM” to start his business.

“RM” has now started his own business and we have purchased a large amount of epoxy resin to support with this.

Chetan Randeria, Impact Advisor

J's story

Impact advisor Kiran initially received “J”’s referral through the internal Programme Management Team, as “J” was a self-referral and was keen to join the programme. Once “J” enrolled onto the programme he expressed his interest in Welding, he wanted to pursue this as a career.

In their initial meeting “J” was very focused and clear about the direction and support that he required. Following this Kiran completed his Individual Development Plan, She noted that “J” lacks in qualifications and prior work experience, he also feels there is a lack of job opportunities locally. It was important to support “J” with these barriers so that he could move into a positive outcome.

Identifying his desires Kiran supported “J” by completing a purchase request form for him to do the welding course.

Kiran needed to provide three quotes for different providers that were sourcing the course. These included Central Building & Welding Academy, Canal Engineering and Weld-Qual Services. “J” expressed he would prefer to go with CBWA as the welding course also include the TIG & MIG qualification.

The Programme Management Team agreed and went with CBWA, although they were based in Coventry. “J” was determined to do the training and had arranged his own accommodation nearby so that he can attend on time.

Once this barrier was overcome, “J” was finally given a start date for 14 June to do his training with CBWA.

“J” informed me that he was thoroughly enjoying his experience with the company and was learning so much. “J” completed his training and accomplished his ambition of becoming a welder.

“J” then informed Kiran that he wanted to start looking for employment, so he started applying to companies such as Jaguar Land Rover and RGK Wheelchairs. Meanwhile there was another setback as “J” had to wait for his certificates to come through before he could apply for roles or even get an interview.

After chasing up with the provider, “J” received his certificates after 2 months. “J” was offered an interview with RGK Wheelchairs, they were amazed with the talent that “J” had.

Success was not too far behind as “J” was offered the role as a welder/fabricator, which commenced on 4 October 2021. “J” was very excited about this opportunity as this was his desired career. “J” was persistent and never gave up on his ambition to become a welder, although they were many barriers he did not give up.

RGK wheelchairs is a very unique company which “J” is delighted to be part of. They manufacture sport and daily made-to-measure wheelchairs. “J” informed Kiran that he is enjoying his current role and grateful to be part of such an established company.

“Kiran has been very friendly and easy to talk to, finding the course I wanted was incredible. Obviously, there was unexpected delays but those are very minor and I wouldn’t be where I am now without Kiran’s help”.

KM's story

KM was referred to Black Country Impact from Walsall College in May 2021, as they were unable to accommodate him with a course. The barriers identified at the time of completing the IDP were financial, as KM was keen to gain a SIA qualification/licence/badge but due to financial constraints, he was unable to fund this himself. By gaining this qualification would enhance KM’s chances of gaining employment.

KM was provided with a full IAG session, it was clear that he has excellent communications skills and relates well to people at all levels, a number of barriers were identified, including unable to fund the SIA training himself.

I supported KM in sourcing a SIA Course with SainTs Training via the DPS, he completed this in October and the feedback that I received from the Training Provider/Tutors regarding KM’s commitment to the course was excellent. KM achieved a Level 2 Door Supervisor qualification and a Level 3 Award in Emergency First Aid at Work qualification. Once this training was completed, further support was given for his CV and job search, I was aware of a steward's position available with Walsall Football Club for their match days,

I arranged an interview for KM and was pleased to be informed that he had been offered this job.

Due to financial constraints, KM was unable to afford the uniform to start the job, therefore, through Black Country Impact, we were able to fund the cost of uniform, which KM greatly appreciated.

Due to KM’s excellent performance with SainTs Training, they have been able to secure him a permanent Security job with New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton, with a view to starting this in the near future. KM started his job with Walsall Football Club on Saturday 23 October, which is going really well. I congratulated KM on his progression and wished him well for the future.

I worked closely with KM, held regular Reviews in which KM engaged well.  KM was pleased to inform me that he gained a Level 2 Door Supervisor qualification and a Level 3 Award in Emergency First Aid at Work qualification.  With these qualifications he was able to secure a stewarding job with Walsall Football Club.

Helen Mawby, IAG Advisor

JP's story

JP was referred to programme by his Work Coach at Bayard House Job Centre Plus, DWP. I contacted JP and informed him about the BC Impact programme and how it can support him into employment, education or training. JP was very interested in the support he could receive and wanted to join the programme. Therefore, I checked his ID, eligibility and enrolled him; programme start date was 23/07/2020.

When JP joined the programme he had been NEET for 3-5 months and was claiming Universal Credit. JP's main objectives of joining the programme were:

• train and gain qualifications in plastering
• train in construction and obtain a CSCS card
• improve employability skills such as effective job search, CV writing, cover letters, application forms and interview techniques
• boost self-confidence and motivation and develop techniques to overcome anxiety when meeting new people
• secure sustainable employment or apprenticeship in plastering, construction or warehouse

I reviewed JP's CV and made changes to it as the format and content required improvements. JP was pleased with the new CV and used it to apply for jobs. JP wanted to do training in plastering and obtain a CSCS card. A pre-employment training opportunity came up with Sandwell College (funded by West Midlands Combined Authority) to do training in Dry Liniing and Plastering which included a CSCS card. I informed JP about this training and he was interested so I referred him. JP successfully completed this course and obtained the following qualifications: - CSCS card - Level 1 Health & Safety in Construction - Manual Handling - Introduction to Dry Lining and Plastering.

Following completion of this course, JP required support with improving his employability skills such as help to complete application forms and interview skills. JP was referred to LEAD and completed the Personal Development & Digital Skills course (funded by BC Impact). JP did very well on this course and he felt he learnt something new and he found it very useful. JP wanted to progress to the Customer Service course so he was referred to that too. However, JP was unable to start this course as he started a 6 month kick start employment, and this intervention is outstanding due to early exit.

JP started a 6 month kick start employment with Keepmoat Homes on 07/06/2021. He will be working a minimum of 25 hour per week, Monday to Friday as a Site Labourer. JP requested help with his travel expenses to get to and from work for his first 4 weeks, until his first pay. BC Impact has supported JP with this travel expenses for the first 4 weeks of this employment outcome. JP is aware that when this contract ends, if he is NEET again and wants further support he can re-join BC Impact, provided he meets the eligibility criteria. JP has come a long way on programme and he leaves having gained new qualifications and employment. All but one intervention have been completed, programme end date is 10/06/2021.

Jas Ruprai, IMPACT Employment Advisor

DR's story

DR, from Walsall St Matthews was referred to Black Country Impact via his work coach at Bridal Court JCP. DR is currently homeless and sofa surfing between friend’s homes. DR is from the traveling community and has very little to no attainment in education.

DR is at the start of his journey and the following case study has been presented to capture the distance travelled in such a short space of time. Also to date we have raised a purchase request for DR to access the CSCS training with Learning Into Employment.

DR has been totally disengaged from the education system and from people of authority resulting in very little attainment. Since joining Black Country Impact DR has engaged with his advisor and through regular mentoring DR has come on leaps and bounds and is now at the stage now of making steps towards improving his prospects. DR has agreed to start making the steps towards improving his literacy and numeracy which in the past he would have turned down point blank. During our mentoring sessions we have discovered that DR has a keen interest in Construction and we have agreed to make steps towards him gaining a CSCS card. A major success to date is that DR attended a job interview with John Sisk & Sons working on the new M6 junction project however he was unsuccessful and put on a pending waiting list.

As per DR's individual development plan, DR will be working towards the following:

1. Improve his literacy and numeracy with Learn Play Foundation gaining recognised qualifications
2. Gain a CSCS card with Learning Into Employment
3. Improve his housing situation and receiving support from the housing department at Walsall Council

A's story

“A”, from Willenhall was enrolled onto the Black Country Impact Programme at Willenhall JCP after his Work Coach Malcolm referred him to gain support dealing with some personal issues and gaining employment.

During the time of creating “A”’s individual development plan it was clear to see that “A” had a caring nature and genuinely wanted to help people. “A” demonstrated this through his volunteering work with the St. John Ambulance Service, however “A” had some personal issues that he was dealing with and needed support overcoming them. “A”s long term aspiration was to become a paramedic however this was now put on hold with some shorter term goals to achieve first.

The impact advisor provided information advice and guidance to help “A” overcome his issues through regular appointments and a whole host of techniques to address the challenges that he was facing in turn getting him ready for employment. A now more confident “A” still partially dealing with his challenges felt more confident and optimistic with taking on the challenge of gaining employment.

During “A”s appointments it was agreed to support him with his mental health via Murray Hall and a request was submitted. He was also provided with a list of local care companies that Walsall Works produced and agreed to start calling them forwarding his CV and cover letter to enquire about their current Support/Care Worker employment opportunities. After several speculative phone calls the exercise proved to be fruitful and “A” was invited to be interviewed by 5 care services. On completions of his interview “A” was successful and received a conditional offer pending the usual checks.

At the start of the Covid-19 pandemic “A” was faced with the challenge of making the choice of pursuing the offer of employment or putting this offer hold until he had received the counselling support from Murray Hall however in true selfless fashion “A” unquestionable decided to go full steam ahead with the offer of employment as “A” felt that this would be an excellent time to start his employment journey whilst helping the most in need during this challenging time.

A DBS request was submitted to the programme management team and “A” was supported with gaining this. He then went on to provide the necessary references and on confirmation he was issued a start date, he then went on to carry out the 5 care services mandatory induction / shadowing gaining his first official shift during the pandemic.

The advisor has been in regular contact with “A” during his employment and has fed back that he is thoroughly enjoying his new role and extends his gratitude to everyone that has supported him in his journey gaining this employment.

A's story

“A” had been in receipt of universal credit for nearly a year before his work coach referred him to Black Country Impact. “A” had been struggling following a car accident whereby he severely fractured his wrist and was no longer able to continue in his driving job.  The accident affected his health as he felt he had lost his independence and in turn was not able to figure out his future options.  “A” was very disheartened, lacked motivation and at a low point. “A” had also started to indulge in smoking, this was also having an adverse effect on his health and wellbeing.

“A” first met Neena Rattu, an Employment Advisor at Bridle Court Jobcentre.  Neena was able to explain how the Black Country Impact programme could support him and help him progress into a career.  “A” wanted to work but did not know how to start and needed support and guidance. 

Through regular meetings, Neena started to discuss “A”’s career aspirations and gained an understanding of the barriers that were preventing “A” from progressing.  “A” was open and honest about his situation and came to realise that he lacked motivation and needed someone there to support him and set clear realistic goals for him.

The first step in moving forward for “A” was realising his barriers.  Neena started working with “A” to improve his employability skills and to explore career options.  Neena helped “A” to devise a new CV, capturing his skills, qualifications, experience and abilities.  This helped “A” to realise his strengths and helped to build his self-esteem and self-confidence. Neena also commenced with exploring different career options with “A” and he was able to identify that he was a practical, hands on person who enjoyed the outdoors.  This allowed Neena to source opportunities that he would be interested in.

A road traffic-marshalling course was identified by Neena, which “A” was very much interested in and keen to commence.  The course also had a guaranteed interview at the end, the course was ideal for “A” and he felt this was something that he could do and achieve. The course was procured by Black Country Impact.  “A” thoroughly enjoyed the course and upon completion attended an interview.  Neena helped “A” prepare for the interview by providing interview tips, discussing how best to present himself at the interview and talking about body language and the message it portrays.

Maintaining regular contact and keeping “A” motivated was a key in his success and the end result was employment with Highway Traffic management based in Birmingham.

The first intervention with Neena thought was very important, as it important to get “A” motivated, let him know what the expectation was and to and into a routine.  Neena had regular  one to one meetings with “A” at Bridle Court Job centre, Walsall Central library the at Skills UK.

It took a couple of months and regular contact for “A” to gain trust with his Advisor and open up more about his health issue and to be open about his barriers. Once “A” he started to attend his appointments regularly he became more positive about the future and motivated to achieve and secure something for himself.

The Road Traffic Management course via Vocation Training in Dudley was the key turning point for “A” as he had a goal in sight and was keen to achieve and secure employment.

“A” successfully completed the interview and was successful to commence employment the week after.

“A” is successfully in employment and has the motivation and confidence to succeed in the future and therefore has been exited from the Black Country Impact programme as a success.

O's story

“O” is a 27 year old Psychology Graduate who had been unemployed for 6 months when referred to Pam Davies on the E&S team. She had 3 years Retail/Customer Service experience and 3 years voluntary experience as a GCSE Tutor and Support Worker. “O” worked for Mid Counties Co-operative Energy for 12 months until her contract ended.

Pam provided IAG initially to “O” as she was keen to become an Educational Psychologist but appreciated that she needed to develop her experience of working directly with clients in order to move closer to this job goal. “O” was open to diversifying and Pam suggested considering support work in schools or within an Advisory role. When I advertised the DWP vacancies Pam advised “O” to apply as she felt that she would be an ideal candidate. She was initially referred to the Go Train DWP Preparation course which took place in August. She obtained a Customer Service Level 2 qualification as part of this course but failed to receive the support that she needed in order to apply for the Work Coach vacancies.

Pam and I provided support with advice on the completion of the competency based personal statement and I checked her final version. We also gave advice on how to complete the application form and also on possible interview questions and answers. During the period the vacancy was open myself and Matt Lloyd put on a “Virtual Expo” giving information on the application process and help and advice on how to complete the application form, particularly the competency statement, for both the DWP Work Coach vacancies as well as Customer Service vacancies with HMRC. Over 30 customers joined the event via Teams including many from Black Country Impact and furthermore including “O”.

“O” gave feedback to Pam on how useful the information given at the Virtual Expo had been.

She subsequently passed the on-line test and scored highly enough through the competency example to secure an interview. She was interviewed virtually and was subsequently successful and was offered a job. She will be starting work as a Work Coach on 7 December 2020.

B's story

“B” was a referral from the Probation Service – Officer Sarah Turner. “B” is an ex-offender and was given a two year suspended sentence during Covid lockdown. “B” was convicted of vehicle theft, for driving with no license and for driving with no insurance. “B” said that the crime was life endangering. He said that he had 8 police cars and a police helicopter in pursuit of him. The police pursuit resulted in “B” crashing into a wall at high speeds. He said that he is lucky to be alive.

“B”’s main barrier is that he is an ex-offender with the temptation to commit crime again. “B” also has no CV, moderate learning difficulties and travel restrictions.

Aaron (“B”’s Employment Advisor) offered “B” positive mentoring and said that he is very fortunate that he didn’t get sentenced to prison, as he’s worked with a lot of ex-offenders in the past who have been sentenced for 6-9 months for vehicle theft alone, minus the driving with no insurance. Aaron explained that “B” had another chance to do better with his life. “B” agreed and said that he has a young son which is why he wants to steer away from a life of crime. He said that he understands that he has been given a second chance. “B” said that he lives with his mother and wants to do better in life.

Aaron also offered “B” career guidance. “B” said that he has done practical hands on jobs in the past and that he is interested in warehouse nights work. He said that he is looking for something close by as he is on a driving ban for two years. “B” said that he was interested in CSCS training if he can’t get warehouse work, but that his priority is to find work to keep out of trouble and earn a stable income. Aaron knew that it would be difficult to support “B” to find employment so close to Christmas especially because it was the 14th December and a lot of warehouses such as Boots in Burton had put a stop to recruitment. This is why it seemed a struggle to help “B” with what he wanted so soon. However, the next day Aaron had an unexpected call from an employment contact he made a week ago.

This was a call from Kris at Ideal Recruit. Kris said that he had a job open at Yodel warehouse (before they close recruitment until next year), however, applications had to be in for the next morning as the induction was the day after (for successful candidates). What was even better news is that the warehouse location was 6 minutes away on a bicycle from “B”’s home address and that the job was for night shifts! Aaron contacted “B” to tell him about this opportunity. “B” said that he couldn’t believe it and said that he really wanted the job. Aaron informed “B” that he needed a picture of his birth certificate as well as an official letter with his National Insurance number on which we needed to be attached to his application form. “B” said that he will get this ready for the morning.

Aaron contacted “B” the next morning to complete the application form. “B” said that he was buzzing about the job opportunity, however, he said that he couldn’t get a picture of the birth certificate as his camera was broken. “B” said that he really wanted this job because of how ideal it was. Aaron asked “B” whether he could come and meet him at Walsall Probation so that he could take the picture of the birth certificate. “B” said that he was closer to Wolverhampton Probation. Aaron contacted Wolverhampton probation and asked Officer Sarah Turner, whether she could meet “B” and take a photo of his birth certificate and send this to him. Aaron also explained about the job opportunity. Sarah said that she was really happy about the job and said that this was an amazing opportunity for “B” to keep him clear of crime. “B” met Sarah at Wolverhampton Probation and got the birth certificate photo sent to Aaron. Aaron then supported “B” with his job application and got the birth certificate sent with the application to Kris from Ideal Recruit. “B” was successful during application process and was invited in for induction/interview at Yodel Warehouse the next day. This went really well. “B” was successful and started at the warehouse on the next night! Probation and “B” were over the moon!

Aaron contacted “B” today to see how he was getting on. “B” said that he has been doing really well. Probation are impressed with his progress. “B” has been going to work on his bicycle and said that the warehouse is really close by. “B” said that he has been working over the weekend too at Yodel warehouse. He said that he is really grateful for the support and said that he will keep at the job. Aaron applauded “B” for making an effort with employment and for most of all, making an effort to turn his life around. Aaron also advised “B” about the Benefits of saving his money for a more successful future.

“B” is on Probation license for two years so he will continue to get additional support from his Probation Officer. One of the greatest successes of “B”’s short journey on Impact is that he is now in full time employment before Christmas. For a lot of ex-offenders Christmas can be a time of financial strain mixed with the pressure of getting gifts for children (children which have been absent from ex-offenders lives due to lengthy prison sentences). Some ex-offenders that Aaron has worked with in the past have found themselves back in prison this time due to temptations of crime. Although Aaron worked with “B” for a short period, he carried out intensive support with “B”, ‘rapid response support’ to get “B” into employment and to deter him from a life of crime.

The Ministry of Justice (2020) state ‘only 17% of ex-offenders manage to get a job within a year of release’. This is why it is a huge success for “B” to now be in full time employment. He has transcended and is in a better place, keeping active and busy. He also has a sense of purpose and will be feeling proud as a son and as a Father to his own son.

A's story

For the first time since the Christmas period, It was a quiet day at Walsall Probation, on Thursday 19 March 2020.

Aaron was awaiting to hear about whether there was going to be a lockdown due to the spread of the coronavirus which was rapidly increasing. Many people had already started to self-isolate due to symptoms, including Probation Officers and ex-offenders which made the Probation Office feel like an abandoned ship…

However, towards the end of the day, Aaron had a knock on the office door. Probation Officer Stephen (Steve) asked whether Aaron could have a meeting with one of the ex-offenders that he manages – “A”. Steve gave Aaron a bit of background information about “A”. “A” is 26 years old and has been in and out of prison for robbery offences. 

I invited “A” into the meeting room. “A” came in and was wearing shorts and a long coat. He was quite quiet at first. Aaron spoke to “A” about the Black Country Impact Programme, including eligibility and the support which is available. This gave “A” the opportunity to open up and introduce himself. To Aaron’s surprise “A” spoke with a scouse accent. To open up the conversation, Aaron asked “A” whether he had spent some time up north. “A” said that he has never spent any time up north but picked his accent up from his long sentence stretches served in prison and said that he was incarcerated with a lot of people who were from up North.

“A” said that he was surprised to hear about the support available from Impact for ex-offenders. This encouraged “A” to open up more about how he got involved in crime and tell his story. He said that he got involved in crime since the age of 10 and left school from year 8. He said that he grew up in Heathtown, Wolverhampton and was part of a notorious crime family where he was surrounded by crime.

Aaron provided positive mentoring to “A” and explained that although “A” had a tough upbringing which may have been a traumatic experience, “A” still had the opportunity to start a fresh new path, especially because he no longer lives in Wolverhampton. Aaron also further elaborated about the support that he could offer in regards to continued mentoring support, aspirations, CV support, career guidance and general ‘post prison’ advice.

“A” had a smile on his face and said that he was really grateful for any support available and appreciated the non-judgmental opportunity for a fresh start. To Aaron’s and the Probation Officers surprise, “A” began to open up more about hidden talents which he has. “A” spoke about the books that he had written in Prison. This was amazing to hear! “A” had been keeping busy in prison writing crime fictional books.

He also writes poems such as the ones below:

Statesmen Napoleon Bonaparte manipulated the art of infinity

Has he twined squares from circles to straight lines 

Whilst he pealed the pieces from those who were the enemy

The magician of sculpturing recognition Michelangelo 

Has moulded many delicate colours of dynasty

And as also turned rocks into human flesh, has he flexed with the winds from Florence distancing to the Vatican city

After recognising “A”’s talents, Aaron told “A” about the Open Lens Media project. “A” said that he was interested in speaking to Daina about the film project. Daina asked Aaron to complete a referral form and said that it would be great to have “A” on the Open Lens Media project as he has a lot of potential.

“A” left the meeting on a high. He said that he was really grateful for the support and was looking forward to working with Aaron to better his life.

A few days after this meeting, the lockdown began and ways of working changed. The majority of the public began working from home, including Walsall Council employees and Probation Officers. Aaron was concerned that his rapport with his young people would be affected by this due to not being able to have face to face contact with the ex-offenders. However, even with this barrier Aaron kept close contact with “A” every few days, offering advice and guidance to him.

“A” said that although he wanted to continue to follow his dream of becoming a writer and film producer, he was struggling financially and really needed support to find employment. Aaron got to work right away and supported with building “A”’s CV and began to contact employers. Employment Engagement Officer (Rob Beck) advertised a job with AF Blakemore. “A” said that this would be a fantastic opportunity for him as the workplace was close by and also because the shift times were suitable, 11am – 7pm, which gave him the opportunity to concentrate on his book writing in the mornings.

Aaron supported 4 of his ex-offenders with the application process and all of the guys got an interview. However, 2 of the ex-offenders failed the drug test and 1 ex offender didn’t hear back. “A” was the only one who was successful with his interview and was offered the job to start on the 18th May 2020! Aaron kept contact with “A” once he started employment and received excellent feedback from “A” about the change in his life. “A” said that he has been enjoying his job. “A” sent Aaron an email stating:

‘I just wanted to thank you Aaron, for all the support you've provided to myself. Through these dreadful times of Covid-19…Which will help me move forward dramatically. So once again, I shall say thank you’.

Stephen Marshall (Probation) also said that Probation were also really grateful for the support from Impact further stating:

‘Oh wow…. That’s wicked news about (“A”)… seems to be settling in and doing very nicely for himself. Glad to hear he has continued to work with yourself and by the looks of it made significant progress. CV looks mint’.

People from Black and Minority Ethnic groups constitute just 14% of the general population in England and Wales, however, make up 25% of the prison population. “A” was once one of these statistics and was trapped in a system that he could not find a way out of. However, with the support of Impact he has now overcome the greatest barrier that the majority of prison leavers face because of their past – securing legitimate employment and financial stability with a criminal record.

Aaron Gharu, Employment Advisor

I heard about the programme through my work coach, Marilyn from Bridle Court JCP, who referred me to the programme. My initial barrier was finding employment.

The support I received was help in finding apprenticeships or full time jobs. I also attended the Raise Your Game session which was really useful and helped me to identify the different career paths I would like to pursue and it also helped to increase my confidence. Other support I received was preparing for a job interview that I had recently for a Business Admin apprentice. Shantelle provided me with three mock interview sessions to ensure I was fully prepared for the virtual interview.

My next step is entering an apprenticeship as I was successful with the interview. I am just awaiting for my contract and start date to be finalised.

Thank you again Shantelle for all your help and support throughout my time on the programme. You have really helped me every step of the way.