Stewart Way, 56 from Redcar approached Family Wise when he was unsure where to turn to for support following the death of his wife, Susan.
Stewart had been sole carer to Susan for five years.
Andy Popple, a Family Coach on the Family Wise project was able to support Stewart to produce a C.V. something Stewart hadn’t had for many years. He also helped him make enquiries to ensure he was receiving all of the welfare support he was entitled to.
Stewart had previously worked mainly in the security industry but following his experiences caring for Susan he now wanted to look at working in the care sector. Andy helped Stewart to apply for jobs via the internet and assisted him with interview preparation.
Finally he was successful in securing a position with Care Mark. Stewart has started off by working on a zero hour contract and is often able to work between 7 and 24 hours per week. Stewart is really enjoying the job and feels it is fulfilling.
Stewart said:
“Family Wise has been really good for me. Andy has always been at the other end of the telephone and helped me with untold different issues which have arisen in the last year. The whole experience of being out of work and on benefits was new to me but Andy has made sure everything has gone as smoothly as possible”
Andy provides ongoing support to Stewart in his attempt to secure a permanent contract and to also advance in his employment through further training.
Family Wise is funded from the European Social Fund Support for Families with Multiple Problems contract. Delivered by Five Lamps across Stockton, Middlesbrough and Redcar & East Cleveland