Redundant worker helped into new job praises WG scheme

A FORMER project manager made redundant after 10 years in the same company praised a new Welsh Government support programme after receiving funding and advice to help her into a new role.

Karen Griffiths, from Bangor, contacted Working Wales, an all-age advice careers service funded by the Welsh Government and run by Careers Wales.

After speaking to an adviser, Karen, who used to work at the Volkswagen Group, was matched to the React programme, where she received £1,500 worth of funding towards updating her qualifications, alongside interview training, and CV advice.

The Welsh Government has now announced a new employment support programme, React+, which offers those at risk of redundancy or who are out of work, personalised support tailored to their individual needs.

Karen is encouraging others to make use of the funding and advice.

“I hadn’t applied for a new job for a long time, so I didn’t know what my options were. My JSA Work Coach advised me that I’d be the perfect candidate for the React programme and encouraged me to get in touch,” said the 58 year-old.

“Working Wales assigned a Careers Advisor coach to me, and they were fantastic at understanding my individual needs and career goals. They offered bespoke solutions to my situation, including the £1,500 funding to update my qualifications.

“I thought it sounded too good to be true, there must be a catch.”

She accepted the funding and registered for her Agile PM and Prince 2 qualifications.

Karen added: “I successfully passed both qualifications to add to my CV and opened my job options considerably. I was even offered one job before I had even finished my second qualification!”

Karen is now settled into her new Business Analyst role at Merseyside-based Carpenters Group.

Search React+ or call 0800 028 4844.