When I came to the UK from Ukraine in 2022, I registered at a Ukrainian Café in my local area and met with a National Careers Service adviser for support with getting into work.
I have a bachelor’s degree from Ukraine in English and Teaching English as a Foreign language, as well as a qualification in Customer Service skills. Before I left Ukraine I was working as an English teacher, and since moving to the UK I had been supporting some fellow Ukrainians in improving their English.
I felt that being Ukrainian was a barrier. I didn’t have my Ukrainian qualification translated to English and because I don’t have a UK driving Licence, I rely public transport. This means any job needs to be accessible this way.
We discussed my background, my goals and the type of work I wanted to look for. My adviser really helped me to understand my skills and the roles I would be suitable for, which built my confidence. We researched job profiles on the National Careers Service website, and I learned how to use online job platforms to search for jobs. From there we were able to build my CV and work through some mock interviews.
The support I was given truly helped me. I managed to get quite a few interviews, and chose to take a role as an Administrative Assistant for a waste management company, which I started in April. My confidence has greatly improved and a weight has been lifted knowing I now have a job.
The National Careers Service provides free, up to date, impartial information, advice and guidance on careers, skills and the labour market in England to anyone aged 13 and upwards. To speak to a National Careers Service adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our webchat. Lines are available from: 8am – 8pm Monday – Friday, and 10am – 5pm Saturday
