‘The best thing that’s ever happened to me’
What is your job with Southway and how have you been finding it? Craig: I’m a Customer Hub Advisor, the first person tenants speak to when they call for help and advice. It’s great! I really like helping other tenants and Southway is a terrific place to work. The staff here really care about the customers and really want to make difference to our communities. What would you say to someone in the position you were? Craig: Just do it, just go. Just count to three, kick your legs out and stand up. I understand if you need that nudge. Everyone deserves someone like Zeek to tell you ‘You can do it’. I knew what I needed to do for 10 years, you just get stuck in a rut. I can never thank him enough because I’ve never had someone who said, ‘come on Craig you are good enough, get out of bed, have you applied for this?’. I keep saying it, but it’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me. All Southway tenants can have free career support, including finding what you want to do, improving your CV, and preparing for job interviews.
Craig, first from left
How Craig found his way forward with our Employment Support Team A few months ago, tenant Craig McGowan was working part time in hospitality and struggling with motivation. After meeting our Employment Support Team and securing a job with Southway, his confidence has never been higher.
Hi Craig, tell us why you got in touch with the Employment Support Team Craig: It was like a touch of fate. Southway rang my house and asked about any unemployed or part-time workers. My mum encouraged me to phone them back and then Zeek from the team got in touch. I was part time at my mum and dad’s, with no money. The confidence and drive I had was zero. Everything was uphill, everything was a slog. The world was against me. I had the same narrow-mindedness about this journey. I didn’t even know it would even be a journey!
Find out more on our website
www.southwayhousing. co.uk/advice-support/ employment-skills- training
More tenants begin their employment journeys
Our office was abuzz with students and young people looking to begin their employment journey in August as we hosted Pathways to Employment. This annual event gives people a chance to find out more about apprenticeships and career opportunities from a wide range of employers and providers. From training courses to fully paid positions, there was a lot for those attending to browse.
Thank you to everyone who came along! We were able to have loads of interesting chats with you and the ambition you showed for your futures was truly inspiring. Pathways to Employment is just one of many ways our Employment Support Team are reaching out to help our tenants find their way forward. If you need help finding a job, levelling up your CV or deciding your next steps, get in touch…
On top of our many employment events, our dedicated team offer 1-1 support and drop in sessions. Go to www.southwayhousing.co.uk/ advice-support/employment-skills- training, or give us a call on 0161 448 4200 to begin your journey.
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