I remember vividly the day I was convicted and sent to prison. The feeling of hopelessness at having lost my job and my freedom. I was filled with shame and guilt. I wondered what world would be waiting for me when I was released. Who would employ me? Why would they employ me? If I couldn’t get a job, then what was the point?
Then one afternoon Working Chance came to my cell, introduced themselves, and explained they could help me. I wasn’t in the right frame of mind at this moment in time to comprehend just how much this encounter was going to change my life.
When I left prison, I applied for job after job with no success. One day, I remembered Working Chance and gave them a call. From the moment I stepped into the office, I was supported by the staff and treated like a person, not a criminal. Within weeks I had two job interviews lined up and now, five years on, I’m still employed at the same charitable organisation!
The support I was offered made me realise that I was a valuable member of society, that I was worthy of a career and that I had the necessary skills and experience to secure meaningful employment.
My confidence has grown and I no longer feel like a failure, in fact, Working Chance has made me realise that I am stronger than I give myself credit for.
Not only have they helped me find a job but I am now married with a young son and step-daughter and if I hadn’t been able to turn my life around then I wouldn’t have had the confidence to start a family. So, from the bottom of my heart, I thank you and everything that Working Chance stands for and achieves for thousands of women like me.