I was claiming universal credit for 6 – 7 months and not having any joy in gaining employment in a warehouse, or any other area of work. So I suppose its no surprise, but I was feeling low in confidence and worried about paying bills.

I was searching for jobs online through job sites and company websites but was not getting many responses.

I then found out about Strive through the job centre and they referred me to do the warehouse course.

As that was the type of work I was looking for.

The course was fantastic. I learned about the workings of a warehouse from the management to the drivers to the pickers, and all the health and safety rules and regulations. Shani, my tutor, was inspiring and very knowledgeable about this sector.

Making us think about the working environment and giving us role plays to understand working in a business which was very useful to my learning.

I then had the confidence to apply for a job at Waitrose. The tutors and staff at Strive helped me a lot with the application. Ananta supported me with the online application and gave me some good interview preparation, so I was more confident when attending the assessment, which involved 3 parts: Individual exercise, Team exercise and a competency interview.

To be honest, I did not even know what a competency was until I had this preparation. This made it so much easier for me get through the interview stage and be selected for a job.

I got the job – and all within two weeks of starting the course. I can’t wait to begin the job. I start a Night shift Warehouse Assistant role at Waitrose Coulsdon. My induction is next week, I feel happy to have found work after a long period of applying for roles within this sector.

I have not only gained a qualification but secured employment, which will help me to pay the bills I was so worried about. Strive made this happen for me and I am ever so grateful for all the support I have received along the way. I have gained my confidence and feel so much more positive about the future.

Thank you Strive!