Adam, 24, from Rochdale, was referred to Upturn Enterprise and Talent Coach Janet Whitehead, from Rochdale Council’s single point of access service.
Following the death of his dad, Adam moved to live with his mum. He had been his dad’s carer for two years but had to move out of his dad’s house after his death. Adam was not claiming any welfare benefits and now needed support moving into full time work.
Reflecting on Adam’s situation when first meeting him in January, Janet said: “Adam was still deeply affected by the death of his dad. Living with his mum (who is bipolar) and her boyfriend was not easy for him. Money was also a pressing issue for Adam, but, he had the will to find work and his strong interpersonal skills were clear from the off.”
“You don’t have to be around Adam for very long to realise he is a special young man."
Janet realised that long term, Adam’s prospects would be better if they worked on more than just his CV and career options. They began to look at ways Adam could exercise and get out of the house without it costing him money. They also discussed counselling options (to help Adam with his bereavement) and Janet also referred Adam’s family to a housing association for welfare support.
Before being a full-time carer, Adam had completed a sports coaching apprenticeship. Adam was interested in working in a people-facing role and Janet could see why.
“You don’t have to be around Adam for very long to realise he is a special young man”, she said.
“He has many qualities. He is engaging, polite, listens very well and is good company. He is a humble guy and does not realise he possesses all these strengths.”
Janet helped Adam apply for opportunities in youth work and health and social care, as well as some teaching assistant roles. In March, Adam was successful with an application for a carer role. His DBS and references have gone through, he is now waiting for a start date.
Janet now sees that Adam is much happier but acknowledges that he has still got a little way to go. She said: “Not everything is going to get better straight away. Adam has an inquest into dad’s death to get through and hopefully he can find somewhere else to live (life at home is not always the best) once he has regular wages coming in. I know he will get there. He is a genuine good guy and deserves success.”
