‘Smart Works made me feel valued’
ZAHRA Zahra was 19 and two months into a physiotherapy degree when her mum passed away unexpectedly, and she dropped out of university to become legal guardian to her two brothers, aged 16 and 17, so they would not have to go into care.
Needing to work to support her family Zahra secured an interview with a high street sports retailer and was referred to Smart Works by her coach at the Job Centre.
She received a full outfit and one-to-one interview training, and when she attended the interview was offered the job on the spot. Zahra said: “I was grieving mum’s loss and feeling the pressure of providing for my family. I had very low self confidence and felt like a failure.
“The interview coaching changed my whole perspective on things. When I walked out of the Smart Works building I felt like a different person – it helped me feel like me again and not that lost person – it brought me back.
“Smart Works taught me that I am not a failure and to believe in myself.” PAULINE Pauline was in a abusive relationship with a controlling and violent man, and one day things got so bad she walked out with just her mobile phone and the clothes on her back.
She went to stay with her daughter while she tried to get back on her feet, and after landing an interview with a health and beauty store she was referred to Smart Works by her adviser at Stockport Without Abuse. She said: “I felt like a parasite living off my daughter and my self esteem was on the floor after everything that had happened. I wanted to work. I did not want to rely on my family or claim benefits – I wanted my own money. Before I went to Smart Works I honestly did not know what to expect, but I was totally blown away.
“The thing I most enjoyed about Smart Works was the lovely warm welcome I received from the ladies. They listened to me and made me feel valued – I feel if it was not for Smart Works I would not have a job today.”