Long-term unemployed dad-of-two Remy has been one of ABZWorks’ most determined participants. That doggedness has paid off with a new job in Aberdeen City Council.
Referred to us by the DWP’s Disability department in December 2021, Remy struggled with dyslexia and ADHD, which made securing work particularly challenging for him.
As a dad who plays a very active part in the lives of his two small children, he was determined to make progress. We worked with Remy at his pace, ensuring that the support offered took account of his family responsibilities and his disabilities.
Remy’s main goal was to learn to drive as he felt that was the best way he could support his family and get a job. In April 2022 we applied for his provisional licence and he started lessons that May 2022. It took him several attempts to pass his theory test due to his dyslexia, but he did it!. Remy continued making good progress, but health issues meant he had to step back from employability support in November 2023.
Course built appetite for learning
Remy returned to us fighting fit in April 2024 and expressed an interest in warehouse work. We put him on the CFINE Warehouse Skills course, which he absolutely loved. His self-confidence grew alongside his appetite for learning and Remy completed several shortcourses in his time with CFINE, building his CV while also gaining his forklift licence.
He enjoyed his time with CFINE so much that he volunteered there for several months after completing the course as he enjoyed the routine and it helped to keep him focused and want to get back into work.
With an eye on a warehousing job, which would require a driving licence, we supported Remy with driving lessons and he passed his driving test first time in July. Whilst this dedicated dad still has some challenges at home due to his children’s health, he continues to be a very active parent to his two little ones and does the school runs every day. Passing his driving test was the motivation he needed to say “this is going to be my year” and once the kids were back in school after the summer he focused on getting himself a job.
Employment success
Recently a job came up within Aberdeen City Council for Voids Cleaning – cleaning empty Council housing ready for new tenants moving in. His keyworker Christine read through the job profile with him and they identified his transferable skills – some of which he had developed during his time at Cfine. With support from Christine, Remy applied for the job and participated in mock interviews and was delighted to be offered an interview. He was even more delighted to be offered the job!
No One Left Behind – support is available
No One Left Behind funding from Scottish Government was used to support Remy. If you live in Aberdeen and would like employability support, call us on 01224 070200 or email abzworks@aberdeencity.gov.uk