Llanelli mum nurses her career ambitions

A Llanelli mum has set her sights on a rewarding career in nursing, thanks to the support of two Carmarthenshire organisations.

Kelly Davies, a mother of three boys, had always dreamed of being a nurse and helping others, but did not feel she was able to pursue her ambition due to a lack of confidence and being unable to finance childcare for her children, which would enable her to access the required qualifications.

But two years ago, Kelly got in touch with Genesis – a European Social Funded project which aims to improve life for families by providing support to remove barriers that prevent them from accessing training, education or employment.

With the support of a dedicated advisor, Kelly was able to enrol on a course at Coleg Sir Gâr to study an Access to Health course, during which she was awarded Student of the Year. She has now progressed on to Swansea University where she is studying nursing – supported by the team at Flying Start Carmarthenshire.

Flying Start – a Welsh Government funded programme aimed at providing intensive support to 0-3 year old children and their families – allowed Kelly to work alongside qualified Health Visitors on its team, as part of the practical experience necessary for her first year of training.

She said: “Without Genesis and Flying Start supporting me I would not have been able to go back to college to study. Their support has been invaluable.”

Genesis Advisor Elonwy Williams added: “Kelly was always focused on her goal of wanting to become a nurse. I am sure that all her hard work and determination will result in her success.”

Genesis can provide support through many avenues such as sign posting, advice and guidance, training, education, volunteering, childcare, self-esteem and confidence building, parenting, counselling and financial assistance to access training, employment, education and volunteering. For further information contact the Genesis Sir Gar team on 01554 744340