Restart Scheme
Josh joined the Restart Scheme in Birmingham with Shaw Trust in June 2024. Josh is a graduate and had been mostly unemployed after his graduation - he had previously been employed in an office role but left due to not being suited to the office environment. Initially, Josh had reservations about going through an employability programme. However, after meeting his Job Coach and going through initial induction workshops with the coaching team, Josh started to see the benefit of the Restart Scheme.
Josh undertook the Restart Scheme induction programme, followed by a weeklong Customer Service and Hospitality course, delivered by the Ixion Skills team. This was a useful update from a similar course Josh had previously completed with Springboard.
During the workshops, Josh was able to update his CV and start applying for roles. Josh was looking for hospitality roles and, after some advice from one of the Shaw Trust Coaches, he updated his CV to include pictures of some of his baking and cookery projects, which supported his goal to work longer term in the food service and hospitality industries.
Josh had applied for 50 or 60 roles before being offered an interview with Compass Group following an application recommendation from the Shaw Trust’s Team. Josh had a two-stage interview and was then offered a role as a Till Operator within the retail team at Birmingham City Football Ground. By mid-November, Josh had completed his Team Leader training, which involved extra responsibility for other team members as well as more in-depth knowledge of allergens and food hygiene. Josh started taking Team Leader shifts just after Christmas.
Josh has been commended for his positive attitude during difficult situations, excellent timekeeping, and dedication to his role. Since autumn, Josh has been actively picking up additional shifts at Aston Villa Football Ground to boost his income and support his colleagues.
Josh has Cerebral Palsy, which can affect both his balance and walking. Longer shifts and heavy lifting could be an issue for Josh but he is supported by his employer. Josh’s disability can be unpredictable and he appreciates the additional support his employer gives him to manage his condition.
Well done Josh on your hard work!
