Being back in work is child’s play for Angela

Angela Johnson, 42 from Llandysul couldn’t be happier after finding a job thanks to Workways+.

Angela had been out of work for 15 years after giving up work to have her family. When the children went into full time education, Angela wanted to get back into work but found it difficult to find a job that would fit around her children’s routine and that was local, as she didn’t drive.

Angela was referred to Workways+ by Job Centre Plus, she went along to Cardigan Library and met with a Workways+ mentor. They worked together on a CV, interview skills and discussed what kind of work Angela would like to do. Angela’s background was in hospitality but she was open to suggestions and said she would try anything.

Workways+ sourced a Reception/Cashier vacancy at Teifimania, a children’s play centre in Cardigan and suggested that Angela applied. Angela was asked to attend an interview and she got the job.

Angela said “Working with the Workways+ Team was great, my Mentors were so supportive. They gave me the confidence to focus on my strengths and provided practical support to get me through the CV, application and interview process. A year ago I would never have thought I would be in a job I enjoy doing. I am over the moon and this has had a positive effect on my family, now I have a steady income and we can enjoy a better quality of life.”

“I would recommend Workways+ to anyone looking to get back into employment.”

Tina Bailey, Director, Teifimania said “It’s been amazing to see the difference in Angela since she first started here with us. Her confidence has really improved and she’s great with the customers. We’re a very small team here at Teifimania and Angela has fitted in perfectly.”

Cllr Ellen ap Gwyn, Ceredigion County Council Leader said “It is heart-warming to hear Angela’s story, like many others, who have benefitted from Workways+. They are an important part of helping people over 25 in Ceredigion get back into work, receive training opportunities or volunteer.”

Workways+ is backed by £7.5m of EU funds through the Welsh Government. The project is led by Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council in collaboration with Swansea, Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion Councils.