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'I used to be the person cowering in the corner...' - Julie Ritchie
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With 4 children aged between 8 and 16 - one of whom is registered blind - it was never going to be easy for Julie Ritchie to find work that she could fit around her family. But she tried. She hadn't worked for 15 years, but spurred on by her New Deal for Lone Parents (NDLP) adviser, she got herself on some IT and administration courses, updated her skills and started going for interviews.
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But the job offers weren't coming. 'I think the problem was nerves', she says. 'It was feeling that I couldn't do this. I think that came across in the interviews.' Her NDLP adviser suggested trying out the Parents Returning to Work programme. Julie put her name forward and was accepted.
'I was shy but I thoroughly enjoyed it. I met people in the same situation and have formed close friendships. It definitely boosted my confidence and most of the parents I was with have got jobs now. |
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And it was fun doing the work experience at Sutton Coldfield Marks & Spencer. I started in ladieswear and then asked to move into office work, and they were really accommodating.
The staff made you feel very welcome and it was like being part of a team. It was motivating. ' When the placement ended, Julie decided to try for a term-time job in the education sector. First she wrote to 22 colleges, offering her services free for a three-week period.
The College High School in Birmingham took up the offer. Julie started there part-time and after two weeks was offered a temporary contract as the school's receptionist. 'It's a biggie!', she laughs.
'When it's busy my desk is surrounded by needy teenagers all wanting something from me simultaneously, as well as teachers and parents. I love it!' |
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She's been there seven months now and is hopeful that her contract will be made permanent. 'I've made sure they can't do without me!' And the money has made a real difference.
'We'd managed on Income Support but it did mean at times that the children would have to wait a few weeks for things - if they needed new shoes say. Now they can go to a kidsclub and I know there's money in the bank if they need new clothing. Oh, and I've just replaced the very old cooker we had which had finally packed in. I've been able to go into a shop and say "Can I have that please?" It makes a difference. I've got much more confidence now - inwardly and outwardly. I used to be the person cowering in the corner. Now, in my job, I'm the meeter and greeter!'
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