Natasha has it all figured out thanks to Workways+

Natasha Davies, 42, had worked for 10 years with the 5th Battalion the Rifles based in Germany. 

In 2015 Natasha and her family decided to return to Wales and settled in a small village in Llanelli. Natasha was unable to work due to raising a young family and ensuring they settled into their new life.

After a year of no income and living on her savings, Natasha was keen to get back to work but lacked the qualifications to do the job in accounts that she enjoyed. Even though Natasha had extensive experience the jobs she was keen to apply for required SAGE qualifications.  After seeing a poster for Workways+ Natasha went along to The Hub, Llanelli where Workways+ run outreach sessions. Natasha was allocated a mentor, who worked closely with her to write a CV, build her confidence and search for new job vacancies.

Workways+ identified an Admin and Accounts position with Broadleaf Timber LTD one of the UK’s leading real wood specialists based in Carmarthenshire.  With the help of Workways+ Natasha applied for the post and was shortlisted for interview, her mentor was keen to work with her on interview skills and setting up mock interviews prior to her interview date. Natasha successfully got the job and has now been in employment with the company for six months.

Natasha said “Being new to the area I didn’t know where to start looking for work. I heard about Workways+ and went along to The Hub, Llanelli. My mentor helped me with my CV, supported me with job applications, prepared me for job interviews and then found me my perfect job.

“I have settled in so well at Broadleaf Timber LTD, all the staff are so friendly and make me feel like part of the team. I have now been working here 6 months and I couldn’t be happier. My children have settled in well and I am able to fit work around the school run.”

Emma Rees, Broadleaf Timber LTD said: “Broadleaf had worked previously with Workways+ and so were happy to consider Natasha when she was proposed by them as a potential candidate for the administrative position we were recruiting. Although her role in the Army office was different to the one she fills here, we felt that she had transferable skills and that she would fit well into our busy office team.”

Cllr Emlyn Dole, Leader of Carmarthenshire County Council and lead member for economic development, said: “Creating jobs and supporting people into employment is one of the council’s main priorities.

“Success stories such as this with Workways+ show that the support we are providing is working for both businesses and individuals. We wish Natasha all the best in her new role, and hope that she’s begun a happy and long career.”

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

To find out more information about Workways+, call 01639 684250 or visit www.workways.wales.