Callum, 20 and from Medway, was referred onto the Launch Pad project by his local Jobcentre Plus. Although he expressed a desire to get into work, he soon opened up about his main challenge, in conversation with his mentor, which was around motivation and being proactive.
“My mentor,” said Callum, “kept my mind set on finding some kind of work or direction. He massively helped, particularly at my worst points. When I wanted to beat myself up, he was encouraging. He made me remember that I had a lot going for me which made me want to achieve more.”
“The project gave him structure, routine and emotional support”
Callum told us that the mentoring he received from the project gave him structure, routine and emotional support too; even when it took a little while for Callum to figure out what he was interested in as a career. “There was no pressure to choose something immediately. He was on my side at all times and kept getting me to try new things.”
Callum’s confidence rapidly grew while on the project. He soon started to feel more comfortable in looking for paid work, applying successfully for a seasonal position as a Product Adviser for PC World. His goal at the company is to give excellent customer service allied to a good range of product knowledge. He also hopes to gain an extension of his contract into the new year.
“Launch Pad has done all it could have to help me,” he commented. “When you enter and see familiar and friendly people there, it’s like a helpful friend looking to advise you on how to live a better life. And what’s best is, I’ve turned my hobby into a career!”
At CXK we’re proud to provide training courses, development programmes and emotional support, advice and guidance which help young people to develop the skills and confidence to take their next steps in life.
Whether you’re looking for careers advice, want to develop your confidence, are looking to improve your Maths and English skills, or aren’t in education or employment and unsure what to do next; our services can provide you with the essential skills and confidence you need to ensure you’re in the best position to move forwards. For further details on the services we offer, visit our Services page.
