Learning training and work support

Tess's story - Steps to Work partnership

Tess talks about her experience of Steps to Work employment support

I was referred by the community mental health team (CMHT) to Steps to Work as I needed to get out of my house and re-enter the working environment as the next step in my recovery...and to please the bank manager!

When I first met Paul, I was a little concerned about what I would need to tell him: would I have to explain why I was using the CMHT ? After getting myself all worked up and stressed all he actually needed to know was whether there was anything that may affect my ability to work, such as my anxiety symptoms and what my coping techniques were.

I also felt a bit of a fraud: here's me a relatively intelligent 30-something. Should I really be using up their resources learning about attending an interview? After all, I'm well aware I need to dress smartly, be polite and punctual!

However, after spending some time with Paul - in conjunction with the CMHT - I soon realised there was more to it!

I was looking at getting a job or volunteering, but doing what? I didn't have a clue. I had always been responsible for others and I just wanted a job, but I did have some concerns about disclosing my mental health to a prospective employer as I had been discriminated against in my last job because of it. Paul looked into the legal situation for me and spent a lot of time trying to discover what my skills and abilities were to identify what areas would be suitable for me.

We worked on updating my CV and accompanying letter according to current thinking and my abilities in relation to each post I was looking at. Paul spent time checking my application forms as well as trying to boost my morale on those intolerable times when there was no news or, just as bad, negative news.

When I did get an interview, Paul offered to accompany me there. And, when I got the job he was available if needed to support me in actually getting in the door for my first day! I have now been in post six months and it seems to be working out well. So, thanks have to go to Paul and the CMHT for helping me to gain my confidence, believe in myself enough to get out there and rejoin society - and for pleasing my bank manager!