Alex had recently graduated with a degree in policing but realised it wasn’t the career he wanted to pursue. Unsure about his next steps, he sought guidance from Skills Launchpad Plymouth to explore alternative career paths. Alex had a growing interest in green careers, particularly in the renewable energy sector, and hoped to find a role that aligned with his values and the growing green economy. 

Alex’s journey with Skills Launchpad Plymouth began with a conversation with Jasmine, who helped him explore different options within the green sector. During their discussion, the renewable energy industry stood out as the most appealing field due to its alignment with Alex’s interests in sustainability and innovation. Jasmine gave tailored advice and followed up with resources to help Alex take his first steps into this field. 

As part of his exploration, Alex completed two virtual work experience certifications through Springpod:  Energy and Beyond - Work Experience with EDF and Offshore Wind Work Experience with RWE. These experiences gave Alex valuable insights into the renewable energy sector. For example, he worked on a project about rotor blade recycling for RWE, creating Instagram posts highlighting the company's benefits of this process. He also researched and pitched ideas to improve biodiversity at offshore wind sites, further developing his understanding of the sector. 

To deepen his exposure to green careers, Alex also took part in multiple sessions during Green Careers Week, which he described as inspiring and informative. Highlights included the MVV Energy from Waste Facility Tour where he learned about the waste-to-energy process through a presentation and a guided tour of the site, which he found thoroughly educational; exploring advanced technologies like LiDAR systems and autonomous vehicles used for geo-data services with Fugro Geo-Data Services, gaining insight into cutting-edge innovations; and at the University of Plymouth where Alex toured the Marine and Babbage buildings, asking technical questions about the Celtic Sea floating offshore wind initiative. This session solidified his understanding of the renewable energy landscape in the south west.

With support from Jasmine and the Skills Launchpad Plymouth team, Alex has secured a place on the Petroc Introduction to Renewables Skills Bootcamp. This course will provide him with foundational skills to pursue a career in renewables. Alex is also planning to apply for an engineering apprenticeship at Babcock, demonstrating his growing confidence and ambition in the sector. He said: “Skills Launchpad Plymouth has been instrumental in helping me pivot my career towards renewable energy. The guidance, opportunities, and resources I received—especially from Jasmine—have been incredible. I’m excited to take my first steps in the sector and can’t wait to see where this journey takes me.” Alex described his experience with Skills Launchpad Plymouth as "Empowering, Supportive, and Transformative." 

After becoming redundant from his role as a transport planner, Sam faced the challenge of finding a new job while navigating the uncertainties of unemployment. He sought help from Skills Launchpad Plymouth to find roles that matched his skillset and explore potential career paths. 

Sam accessed Skills Launchpad Plymouth’s online job boards and attended Green Careers Week. A standout moment for him was visiting Plymouth Citybus, where he had applied for a position. This gave him the opportunity to connect directly with staff and demonstrate his enthusiasm for the role. 

Sam appreciated the team's friendly and supportive atmosphere. Jasmine kept him informed about potential opportunities and offered personalised guidance. 

Sam is currently taking on temporary work to bridge the gap while continuing his job search. He hopes to secure a role that uses his existing skills while offering opportunities for growth and development. He said: “Skills Launchpad Plymouth was worthwhile, friendly, and extremely useful. They provided the support I needed during a challenging time.”

Leah has been working with the Youth Hub to build her confidence and always had a long-term goal of working the health and social care. Recognising that Leah had some barriers to break down, Rhi at the Youth Hub with support from Leah’s Job Centre Work Coach, set to work applying Leah’s energy to programmes that will boost her soft skills and prepare her for the world of work.

Leah was set up with a mentor through the YMCA and was enrolled in the Your Futures programme with On Course South West. Through these programmes, Leah’s confidence, communication skills and employability soared and gave her a new assurance of her ability to enter work.

After completing a 1:1 interview prep session with Rhi, Leah felt ready and went on the nail the interview! She secured a role as a health care assistant at Derriford Hospital.

Melissa faced significant challenges after a medical procedure left her unable to work for an extended period. She transitioned from working as a gardener to taking on a zero-hours housekeeping role but felt unfulfilled. After completing a degree in 2023, she decided it was time to pursue a career change. 

Melissa connected with Skills Launchpad Plymouth through virtual consultations, which made the process accessible and convenient. She participated in Green Careers Week, where she explored various opportunities in the green sector. Melissa also received guidance on using job boards to find roles aligned with her goals. 

The support she received helped her better understand the range of opportunities available in the green industry. However, the process also highlighted the challenges of transitioning into a new field, leaving Melissa feeling both inspired and overwhelmed. 

Melissa is still actively job hunting but is still open to exploring roles that allow her to work from home within the green sector. Despite the challenges, she feels motivated to keep pursuing her career aspirations. She said: “Skills Launchpad Plymouth was informative, insightful, and inspiring. The support made me feel more connected to the green sector and gave me hope for the future.” 

Sam first came to the Youth Hub with a lack of confidence and facing barriers due to poor mental health.

He wasn’t feeling like he was ready for work but wanted to take steps to improve his employability and so working with partners, the King’s Trust and On Course South West, Sam enrolled on the Your Futures programme and the Get into Film and Photography. Combining the confidence he gained from Your Future and the practical learning from the King’s Trust programme, Sam has discovered a real passion for photography and is looking to pursue this as a career going forward. His confidence and mental health as come on leaps and bounds, and we know it’s only up from here!

Jacqueline had always struggled to find his niche. His past academic experiences left him feeling uncertain about his career direction, but he realised he thrived in active, outdoor work environments. Lacking a foundation in practical work and feeling unsure about how to proceed, Jacqueline turned to Skills Launchpad Plymouth for support. 

Through Skills Launchpad Plymouth, Jacqueline was referred to the Green Protection of Natural Resources Skills Bootcamp with On Course South West, which gave him hands-on experience and confirmed his passion for outdoor, labour-intensive work. He also took part in Green Careers Week, where he explored fields like marine biology and forestry. These experiences helped him to better understand the day-to-day realities of these roles and the qualifications needed to pursue them. 

Additionally, a LinkedIn workshop helped Jacqueline improve his professional online presence, boosting his confidence in networking and job applications. He appreciated the team’s supportive and flexible approach, which made him feel encouraged to explore his interests at his own pace. 

Jacqueline is now building his experience by volunteering on weekends and earning through short-term jobs during the week. In the New Year, he plans to pursue a landscaping or horticulture apprenticeship, combining his creative side with his love for outdoor physical work. Jacqueline said: “Skills Launchpad Plymouth was informative, rewarding, and motivating. They gave me the tools and confidence to follow my passions and turn them into a career.” 

David was a Group Facilities Manager at a large independent vehicle dealership before being made redundant in October 2024. With his newfound free time, he decided to explore his interest in sustainability and learn more about Plymouth’s initiatives to achieve Net Zero. David was also keen to network and identify new career opportunities, particularly in green industries.

David took part in multiple sessions during Green Careers Week, where he explored various green sector opportunities. A highlight was a session led by a senior lecturer on offshore wind energy at Plymouth University. David found the discussions on wind and wave energy development particularly inspiring, as they showed the potential for job creation in the Southwest. He also had the chance to visit the university’s cutting-edge facilities, including the wave machine and research labs, which showcased the educational opportunities available locally. 

Another memorable experience was the visit to Plymouth Citybus. David engaged with trainers and staff to learn about roles ranging from bus driving to mechanical maintenance. The trainers’ insights and the opportunity to drive a bus added a hands-on element to the session. David noted that the experience was not only informative but also enjoyable and inspiring. 

David has now secured a role with Plymouth City Council. He plans to use the contacts he made during Green Careers Week within his new role. While the redundancy was challenging, David feels optimistic about his future and appreciates the guidance provided by Skills Launchpad Plymouth. He said: “Skills Launchpad Plymouth was organised, informative, and positive. The sessions provided real value and opened my eyes to career opportunities I hadn’t considered before.”

Cory was brought into the Youth Hub by his Youth Offending Team Worker for some career guidance and support with his CV as he was keen to get into paid employment but coming up against some barriers.

After an initial meeting with our Youth Hub Coordinator, Rhianne, together they worked on creating an effective CV for roles within construction and considered different options for upskilling for a future career in the industry.

It was agreed that the best next step would be for Cory to meet with Construction Coordinator, Gareth and Building Plymouth member, JEM Scaffolding.

Cory made a great impression during this meeting, and with his new CV and clear sense of direction, was able to secure a position on the spot! We can’t wait to see how Cory gets on in his new role with

JEM Scaffolding.

Daniel had recently graduated from university but found himself unemployed and struggling to navigate the job market, particularly in the green sector, where his interests lie. Despite his academic achievements, he lacked the practical experience and industry connections needed to secure a role. Daniel was eager to find work, volunteering, or experience opportunities in the local green economy.

Daniel met with Jasmine to explore potential career paths in the green sector. During the meeting, he received tailored advice and guidance on available opportunities and resources. After the meeting, Jasmine emailed specific positions, events, and courses aligned with Daniel’s interests, and what stood out for Daniel was Jas's personal attention and proactive approach. She not only provided information but also took the time to ensure that it was relevant to his aspirations. The sessions gave Daniel access to resources he didn’t previously know existed, helping him feel more informed and confident about his career prospects. 

Daniel continued to engage with Jas, and participated in Green Careers Week activities and the Green Protection of Natural Resources Skills Bootcamp with On Course South West. He has signed up for an employability course to prepare him for his next steps. Equipped with new knowledge and connections, Daniel plans to apply the skills he has gained to improve his job applications and interview techniques. He aspires to secure a position in biology or conservation, ideally within the civil service or a related organisation. He credits Skills Launchpad Plymouth for giving him the tools and confidence to move forward saying: “Skills Launchpad Plymouth was informative, helpful, and proactive. They introduced me to opportunities I wouldn’t have discovered on my own and gave me direction in my job search.” 

Chanel felt ready to start exploring her next steps towards employment.

Chanel attended our two-day pre-employability session, where she completed a CV, an interview workshop and attended a Q&A session with the Area Manager of Barclays. She was keen to start applying for job roles following the session and to get involved with some training programmes to upskill her soft skills, so after an introduction to the King’s Trust at the Youth Hub, she signed up for the Get into Music Production and DJing course in collaboration with The Depo. Chanel shone so brightly on the programme, that the club has offered her a DJ slot on a club night in the new year.

Chanel said: “You guys are a really nice team and very polite. I feel like when I’m with you guys that I am a young responsible adult, and I also feel like you all have a deep understanding about jobs and interviews. They are all a positive and helpful team that not only can provide a good CV, but I feel like they can provide almost like a friendship.”

Matt is a former Royal Marine, currently employed in landscaping but seeking a career change where he can utilise the skills he developed during his military service. Having gone through the resettlement process with minimal support, Matt’s biggest challenge was identifying his transferable skills and negative mindset around future employment opportunities. Matt did not gain the necessary qualifications or guidance to transition successfully into civilian employment, and so when he first met Victoria, he needed assistance with CV building, pre-employability skills, training opportunities, job applications, and utilising his early learning credits for relevant courses.

Victoria and Matt created a bespoke skills action plan that focused on establishing new connections with employer networks in the city, and active job searching with a clearer understanding of his transferable skills. Matt engaged in the Mechanical and Electrical Engineering two-day work experience pilot, where he gained industry insight, grew in confidence and identified key employment areas and pathways that aligned with his military experience. Matt has also built connections with other local veterans to share support and advice.

Matt’s journey demonstrates the impact of personalised, sustained support in helping service personnel transition into meaningful employment.

Wendy is in her 50s, and whilst currently employed in the hospitality sector was looking for support to change her career to work in administration. During her initial meeting with Victoria, it was clear that Wendy’s challenges were due to her lack of qualifications, low confidence in her abilities, and difficulty identifying her transferable skills. Wendy had been struggling to find roles she felt confident applying for and needed support to build her self-belief and employability.

With Victoria’s support and referral, Wendy attended an appointment with the National Careers Service for career advice and guidance and successfully enrolled in a mentoring course with Shekinah to enhance her skills and confidence.

Actively seeking administrative job roles with improved clarity about her strengths and capabilities, after receiving support with application writing, CV development, and interview preparation, she was better prepared to put herself out there. She engaged with recruiting employers at Skills Launchpad Plymouth events to broaden her network. She is now in conversations with a local charity for a volunteering role, which will provide her with valuable experience in a professional setting.

With a clearer understanding of her transferable skills, increased confidence, and practical experience, Wendy is well on her way to achieving her career transition goals.

Yveorn is a qualified accountant and spouse to a Royal Marine who is often serving away. As a mother of two children with no local support network, Yveorn has faced challenges in securing employment due to her lack of UK-based work experience. Her situation has been further complicated by the absence of a strong community network, leading to a need for tailored support in both career and personal wellbeing.

To overcome her barriers, Yveorn accessed support around CV building and job-seeking; pre-employability and training support to enhance her qualifications; work experience and volunteering opportunities to build confidence and practical skills and access to wellbeing support and military family networks to reduce isolation.

After working closely with Victoria on this comprehensive support plan, Yveorn has successfully completed two courses to enhance her professional skills and secured a volunteering role in a financial department to gain valuable UK work experience. Yveorn is actively engaged in job-seeking activities and has secured an interview for a flexible role aligned with her personal circumstances. She regularly participates in Skills Launchpad Plymouth events and actively engages with local support networks, fostering a sense of belonging and community.

Through her dedication and the tailored support provided, Yveorn is steadily overcoming barriers, enhancing her wellbeing, and building a strong foundation for her career in the UK.

Kat is a former Royal Navy veteran who has faced significant challenges as a single parent and long-term unemployed individual. She has struggled to find the correct support and has experienced ongoing mental health difficulties, making her journey to employment and stability particularly complex.

Kat was introduced to Victoria, the Skills and Workforce Coordinator, at a veteran's coffee morning, where she was encouraged to sign up for support services. This led to a series of 1:1 meetings where together Kat and Victoria focused on CV development and exploring Kat’s transferable skills, discussing her experiences with other organisations, addressing her mental health needs and identifying wellbeing activities to support her and her son, exploring volunteering and work experience opportunities to build her confidence and skills, and investigating potential sectors and flexible job roles aligned with her skills and lifestyle.

With Victoria’s support, Kat had an appointment with the National Careers Service for career advice and guidance and started actively job-seeking. She completed a two-week work experience placement with Four Greens Community Trust, which boosted her confidence and practical skills. Most recently, Kat was successful in gaining a flexible job with Improving Lives Plymouth, providing her and her son with financial stability and personal fulfilment.

Kat’s journey showcases the power of personalised support and collaboration in overcoming barriers to employment and enhancing wellbeing.

Victoria connected with Ferdinand, an ex-Royal Navy reservist who has recently been made redundant and currently homeless and staying with friends. In addition to requiring support with finances and housing as a priority, together, Victoria and Ferdinand identified that he also needed support with CV building, accessing information around further training, entrepreneurial opportunities and job searching, to get him back on his feet.  

After three visits to Skills Launchpad Plymouth, getting familiar with the free localised resource bank and opportunity mailers, and some communications back and forth with Victoria, Ferdinand was supported to sign up for Universal Credit. He also attended appointments with the National Careers Service and the Naval Careers Office and began actively job seeking.  

Now equipped with information on local opportunities such as Alabare’s self-build programme for veterans, Enterprise Nation’s self-employment support, the Open University, and having made connections with the Federation of Small Business, Ferdinand is feeling much more positive in taking his next steps.  

Jack came in touch with the Youth Hub during our pop-up support sessions at YMCA Plymouth’s on-site provision Discovery College. He was unsure of his next steps after his college course and lacking confidence in his ability to make the right choices. Whilst Jack expressed a love of sport, he didn’t know what his options were.

Youth Hub Coordinator, Rhi, ran through Jack’s post-college options and together they discussed the personal ‘pros and cons’ of each. As well as this, they covered CVs and gaining work experience through volunteering. Now, after the successful completion of his college course Jack has decided that university is the right route for his next steps and secured a place at Marjon University studying Football Development and Coaching! Rhi will continue to check in with Jack to ensure he remains happy in university and keep him up to date with local opportunities.

"Since moving to Plymouth, I felt nervous about starting a new job after my previous contract ended, as I had been quite confident in [my previous] role. However, I've gained more confidence in my job search locally. Adjusting to everything here, along with my degree, has been a challenge, but I'm grateful for the connections I've made through working with Skills Launchpad Plymouth. I can't thank Jasmine enough for her support in helping me attend a recent job fair. As someone who struggles with in-person conversations, I felt anxious about networking, but Jasmine made me feel comfortable right from the start. She provided me with valuable insights and connected me with several contacts, making it much easier for me to engage with potential employers about job opportunities in Plymouth. Her encouragement and guidance truly made a difference in my experience!"

Lily came to Skills Launchpad Plymouth through the Armed Forces community. She was shy and unsure of what to do next due to her mental health being a barrier to completing GCSEs. She chatted to Rhi about dreams and aspirations and opened up about what she felt was holding her back. Working together, Rhi and Lily came up with some ideas. Rhi accompanied Lily to one of Poole Farm’s SEET sessions so she could learn more about their offer and support. Lily came out of her shell and loved the session and is keen to take the programme on long-term. With ongoing support, Rhi has no doubt that Lily will wow us all in the future! 

“I would highly encourage anyone who is looking for a job, a change in career, or to upskill to seek the help and advice at Skills Launchpad. The advisors there are incredibly approachable, helpful, and genuinely want to help you achieve whatever it is you are searching for. I was signposted to some great resources, given invaluable advice, and left my CV in their capable hands to see what a good fit for me within their extensive networks would be. I didn't feel uncomfortable at all and was really reassured in leaving that I would go on to better things.” 

Serena was a recent Illustration graduate from Arts University Plymouth but was lacking confidence and direction for her next steps. During a one-to-one meeting with Rhianne, they discussed applying for Universal Credit to top up her part-time income; On Course South West’s free Graphic Art course; the Prince’s Trust Enterprise programme for her to consider self-employment and access to grant funding; groups and workshops with The Plot; and work experience and mentoring with Theatre Royal Plymouth. Rhianne also provided a CV review and supported Serena to apply for a part-time role at the Theatre for a foot in the door.

Serena said:

“I just wanted to send you this to say a big thank you!!

"I got a job at the theatre as a hospitality assistant yesterday and I honestly don't think I could've done it without you and Jo.

"The CV tips you gave me were perfect and so easy to understand and got me in the room, but mostly I wanted to thank you for the confidence boost you gave me. I'd been quite down before I came to our meeting, but you gave me hope and such a confidence boost and I was able to go into this interview knowing I could do it because of the advice you gave me and kindness you showed me."

Alice became a member of Skills Launchpad when she and her mum popped in for some upskilling advice. After discussing some training choices, we also identified that Alice would benefit from attending our SEND Employability Sessions.

Alice attended every session, so her CV was reviewed, interview skills were polished and confidence was boosted. The time with Alice helped our Youth Hub Coordinator identify what made Alice motivated and this was caring for children. On the final session, Alice met with City College Plymouth to discuss course options.

Alice is now working toward her goal of becoming a healthcare assistant for children. Her first step is indeed - college! We are pleased that Alice has been supported into a childcare course.

Alice has come along leaps and bounds and we can’t wait to see where she goes next.

Leah, a recent graduate, came to Skills Launchpad Plymouth for advice and support after completing her degree. With a qualification in computer science, she was keen to apply for job roles that would suit her skill set, and utilise her education.

Leah met with Rhianne, our Youth Hub Co-ordinator, and other members of the team on a few occasions to seek guidance on cv format, job applications and interview techniques. It was clear that Leah had the drive and determination to succeed, and was ready for a challenge!

After spending time with Rhianne, Leah was confident enough to make several online job applications, and attend interviews.

Following on from her support with Skills Launchpad Plymouth, Leah has found a fantastic opportunity and new path as a Junior Software Developer with The Range!

Here is what Leah shared;

" I just wanted to say thank you so much for all your help with my applications, you have all been very helpful and if I need some help applying for another job at any point in the future, I’ll definitely come and see you again. "

Tammy (35), a Plymouth Community Homes tenant, was referred to Skills Launchpad Plymouth by the Wolseley Trust’s Social Prescribing service. Looking to gain some learning and progress to university, she met with our Community Lead Coordinator James to discuss her ideas.

As an outreach worker, James met Tammy in the community for a coffee, to chat about her plans and learning aspirations. They discussed a few routes into education, with particular mention of City College Plymouth and The Open University.

Following their meeting, Tammy contacted City College about possibly enrolling onto an access course, with a view to applying for university. Tammy has since been offered an interview and has also requested a prospectus from The Open University to view further options.

Here’s what Tammy had to say:

“Meeting James helped me by finding my way, guiding me with the right ideas, and links I need to get back into studying next year.”

“I was nervous at first, but after meeting James, I feel confident and empowered to do what I need to do”

Describing Skills Launchpad Plymouth’s support, Tammy said, “welcoming, fun and knowledgeable.”

Chris, 35, is an armed forces veteran who had been working with one of our delivery partners the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity (RNRM) with their transition team who work closely with those who are particularly vulnerable.

Chris had been suffering with various aspects of his life including mental health and finding it difficult to find work, but also found that living remotely in Cornwall meant it was proving difficult for the type of work he was looking for.

With lots of transferable skills from his military service and having previously worked within management and leadership roles, Chris had lots of potential. He also had a keen interest in working within the mining and aggregate industries and so following a meeting between our Adult Hub Coordinator and Southwest Aggregates, there seemed to be a great fit.

Southwest Aggregates advised that they actively recruited ex service personnel, and so our Adult Hub Coordinator linked in with Paul Gray, Chris’s case worker at the RNRM and told him about the opportunities with Aggregates and how they were recruiting in Cornwall. Paul spoke with Chris and together we were able to organise introductions between aggregates and Chris. From this point things started moving quickly and Chris was invited for an interview and is now employed as a plant operative for the company.

Working together with the RNRN organisation, the employer, and Chris has enabled him to move into employment, within an area in which he feels confident and supported and one where we hope he will now thrive.

Harry became a Youth Hub member during his Supported Internship work placement with Skills Launchpad Plymouth.

Over the past four months, he gained experience working with local people in the role of Administration Assistant.

Here's what Harry said about his experience:

"During my placement I have been working alongside the Youth Hub Coordinator, Rhianne, to provide face-to-face customer service support from the first floor of Barclays in the city centre, and it’s helped me to gain many skills that I hope will transfer well into my next placement and future job roles.

"Some of the tasks and responsibilities I had included:

• making follow up phone calls and texts to members

• taking part in online training courses

• networking and connecting with people from different organisations including Groundwork South, Prince’s Trust and Care Journeys

• helping to voice the views of young people for the Youth Hub evaluation

• helping to develop content and ideas for focus groups via a SWOT analysis

• creating spreadsheets and data inputting

• reviewing digital content for accessibility

• preparing marketing materials for events including team outreach packs

• attending online meetings on Microsoft Teams

• taking part in a group careers information session

• developing my CV and cover letters

• shadowing team members to gain a better understanding of their roles.

"Overall, my time working at Skills Launchpad Plymouth has been an incredible experience and I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it. I have met many amazing people who have been extremely helpful and supportive. I would highly recommend doing a Supported Internship as the last few months have been great for me."

Becky, 55, came to Skills Launchpad Plymouth after moving to the area with her teenage daughter. She had run a successful hotel business in France with her husband, but having been recently widowed, the move to Plymouth was going to be for a new life with her daughter.

While in Plymouth, Becky has been working part time as a veterinary assistant. One of her immediate needs was to top up her salary. She had considered going self employed as she wanted to utilise her entrepreneurial skills. Along with experiencing grief and moving country, Becky had been very anxious about finances and her daughter’s mental health, and engagement with her GCSEs. Most of their social support networks were in France. Lorna, our Adult Hub Co-ordinator has been able to provide a truly holistic support to Becky. She was able to refer her to the Families Programme at Forces Employment Charity, Outset for self-employment advice, the NatWest Business Builder course, and the National Careers Service, to ensure her CV really showed her transferable skill set. In addition, Lorna was able to share Becky’s details with our in house Health and Social Care team for ideas around part time care work, and give her a tutorial on using the Meetup app for local social support groups. Lorna was also able to provide the details of the Young Minds parents helpline, in order to be able to support her daughter. Here is what Becky shared:

“Can't thank you enough for this. You've been so helpful. That aside, thoroughly enjoyed talking to you too. Love your infectious enthusiasm for everything.

Ashley met with our Adult Hub Coordinator, seeking support with coming off benefits. He was also keen to get an administration role, with a customer service element.

Ashley had successfully completed an apprenticeship in administration and had worked as an Imports Assistant at The Range. He knew to get what he wanted he needed to improve his confidence, social skills and all round employability skills.

Our Coordinator referred Ashley to Plymouth Argyle’s SCORE programme, which he completed and really enjoyed.

This 18 day programme for 18-30 year olds is designed to empower, build resilience, confidence, motivation and self-esteem, in support of finding entry level roles.

He really enjoyed the fun and approachable tutor, the team building activities, and the trip to Dartmoor Zoo. The programme was perfect for what Ashley was looking for.

Following on from meeting with Skills Launchpad Plymouth, and attending the Argyle's SCORE programme, Ashley has been offered a finance administration role at Capita.

Here is what Ashley shared about his experience:

“It just feels good”

Catherine, 52, connected with Skills Launchpad Plymouth through her employer. As part of a group of staff undertaking voluntary redundancy, Catherine took part in a group information session to discuss their next steps, what the current labour market looked like, and talk about the offer of further support. Following the session, she emailed Skills Launchpad Plymouth and connected with Community Lead Coordinator, James.

James and Catherine met up at Skills Launchpad Plymouth to discuss options and some of the roles that she had been considering applying for. High on the list was some admin work with the NHS, where she would be able to put her great transferable skills to good use in a rewarding setting. However, Catherine was unsure of how she could go about applying, having been in her existing role for 33 years.

Communicating via email several times, James was able to offer some support to develop Catherine’s CV. More emails followed, and along with it some interview tips around showcasing her skills to good effect. Success soon came Catherine’s way, “I have had an interview and was offered the job, my first interview since leaving my previous employer.”

When asked about how she felt about her next steps, Catherine said, “I am nervous, excited and apprehensive. Being with the bank for a considerable amount of time I feel almost institutionalised, but on the flip side, I am looking forward to meeting new people and making new friends.”

Here is what Catherine said about her experience with Skills Launchpad Plymouth;

“Approachable, knowledgeable and friendly.”

“Without the help from James I would not have felt confident to start applying.”

“James was extremely supportive, especially with tweaking my CV to make it more professional. I could email him whenever I felt I needed, and he would always reply promptly, even letting me know if he was out of office and would get back to me as soon as he could.”

When Graham, 62 was made redundant, Job Centre Plus advised him to join up to Skills Launchpad Plymouth. Having worked in the same industry for some time, he saw this as a great opportunity to try new things, and have a new direction in his career. He was keen to put his transferable skill set to good use, but was unsure of the best way to approach it.

Spending time with James, our Community Coordinator, and completing a skills action plan, gave him a great starting point. Following advice, Graham made connections with National Careers Service and Argyle Community Trust.

Having now managed to secure an administrative role, in a completely different industry, this is what Graham shared about his experience and his new role:

“Skills Launchpad Plymouth helped because, along with the National Careers Service who helped get my CV organised, it helped point me in the right direction, and put me in touch with the relevant people.”

“I'm enjoying it, but it’s a complete change of direction with new challenges to overcome. There are lots of new skills to learn, but my new company has been excellent.”

“My experience with Skills Launchpad Plymouth was friendly, helpful, positive”

Chris, 57, came to Skills Launchpad Plymouth after suffering a traumatic experience with Covid. Following a period of being hospitalised and in a coma, Chris was left with multiple health problems, which meant that he could no longer carry out his usual plastering work. Having run his own business in Spain for many years, he returned to Plymouth in search of his next chapter!

Our Adult Hub Co-ordinator, Lorna, explored alternative ways to utilise Chris’s valuable experience and skills, including the possibility of teaching in the Further Education sector.

Lorna also referred Chris to get some advice and guidance around financial support and the benefits that he was entitled to. He was also made aware of GP surgeries now having social prescribing Wellbeing Co-ordinators, and Lorna suggested reaching out to them for holistic support for long covid. Along with the advice and guidance around financial and wellbeing support, Lorna referred Chris to the National Careers Service to help create a CV that really highlighted his skill set.

The real turning point for Chris was being introduced to Morven from our Building Plymouth team, who used her connections within the construction industry to signpost him to Greenlight Safety and Training.

They were impressed with Chris’ skills, experience and approachable demeanour, and as a result offered Chris a role teaching young people on the plastering and dry-lining apprenticeships.

As Chris also has experience in Formwork and Steel Fixing, he will also become the trainer in those areas, supporting the need in the city for steel fixers to work on the £350m 10 Dock build by Kier/Bam.

Chris has now been employed by Greenlight for a little over three months. The apprentices respond well to his friendly and compassionate nature, which coupled with his experience and knowledge is proving to be a real asset. Chris has helped build the formwork provision and will also play a vital part when creating their steel fixing provision.

Here is what Chris had to say:

"I first visited Skills Launchpad Plymouth with a little trepidation, not knowing what to expect. I was soon made to feel at ease with all the well informed and friendly staff. I was given great advice, information and the tools to search, and eventually obtain my present job"

Jake, 21 , signed up to Skills Launchpad Plymouth when he completed his six-month Kickstart placement in the care sector. Jake had really enjoyed his placement and was seeking new opportunities.

Jake said: “When I signed up to the Youth Hub as I was looking for an opportunity to help me learn more about myself as a person, to hone my skills and also have viable proof of my skills and what I could do in the hope it would help me find a job.

"I had an initial chat with the Youth Hub Coordinator over the phone, where we spoke about my past experiences and interests. During our conversation she helped me to identify skills that weren’t obvious to me at all, thus teaching me how to put these skills into words when applying for opportunities. She also presented me with various opportunities and we moved forward with a referral to the Real Ideas Organisation for their Green Thinkers programme, which I thoroughly enjoyed. This programme gave me the chance to expand my awareness of various careers and I’m now looking for a new programme to continue broadening my future options.

"I found the Skills Launchpad Plymouth team to be very friendly and equipped with the right resources to provide help too. I’m still nervous about my next steps, but I am willing to push past that and try new things. I still don/t know exactly what I want to do in terms of a career, but I feel that with supportive organisations like Skills Launchpad Plymouth and the Real Ideas Organisation wrapped around me and willing to help, I will figure it out."

Rebekah (21) a Plymouth Community Homes tenant, came to see Skills Launchpad Plymouth after a recommendation from her temporary employer.

Keen to discuss ideas which could support her future work options, Rebekah arranged to speak with Community Lead Coordinator James.

James and Rebekah spoke at length around the development of English and Maths skills which would enhance employability opportunities. They also talked about a wide range of free courses available through On Course South West, particularly Business Admin Level 2 Certificate, which would help both in her current, and future roles. In addition, Rebekah was looking for support to improve her CV.

Following ongoing support from James, and some really positive action on Rebekah’s part, she was able to find new employment and is really happy in her new role.

Here’s what Rebekah had to say:

“Skills Launchpad Plymouth have really helped with directing me for support in drafting a suitable CV and personal statements for job applications. James Blake has been particularly helpful, keeping in touch with me around my work related queries and always asking if there is any more help I would benefit from.”

When asked how she feels about her next steps Rebekah said, “I feel pretty confident that whatever comes my way next, in terms of employment opportunities, I will feel more prepared for any future job prospects. I know Skills Launchpad Plymouth will always be there to guide me if I need it.”

When asked to describe the support she received through Skills Launchpad Plymouth, Rebekah said, “All round - perfect!”

Abbey, 22, was first told about Skills Launchpad Plymouth when she was working with a Pathfinder Keyworker to defer a charge.

She first engaged with the service when attending a Find Your Future session with a support worker. These sessions offer a weekly drop-in opportunity for care experienced young people to join a Barnardos representative and a member of the Skills Launchpad Plymouth team for a chat and some tea, coffee and cake, whilst also finding out about opportunities for skills, training, education, careers and jobs.

The skills assessment identified that Abbey was interested in business admin and retail roles and that she needed to tweak her CV for the different positions. It was also agreed, that the first priority, was Abbey joining a Devon Mind anxiety workshop online to check she had the tools to move forward into employment.

Abbey did attend and this activity provided her with the boost she needed to move forward with applying for jobs, taking on board all of the advice provided. Jo supported Abbey in updating her CV, and gave her confidence in her existing transferable skills, encouraging her to move forward with her goal of gaining employment.

Abbey soon got a job working evening shifts at Tesco, and is now planning ahead for her next opportunity when her contract is reviewed later this month.

Abbey said: “Even though I’m now working, I still receive regular updates on various opportunities from the Youth Hub, including Apprenticeship Bulletins with Plymouth vacancies. Jo checks in every couple of months to see how things are going. I’ve found Skills Launchpad Plymouth to be friendly, encouraging and caring, I would be happy to recommend them and know I can get in touch for advice when I need it.”

Kelley, 41 approached Skills Launchpad Plymouth at a time when she was lacking in confidence. With previous work experience within the community health and wellbeing sector, she wanted to see what her options were.

Kelley spent time with James, our Co-ordinator. After completing a skills action plan, it was clear that Kelley had plenty of potential, with lots of opportunities waiting for her. James had discussions around options moving forward and possible training opportunities with On Course Southwest.

Since dealing with Skills Launchpad Plymouth, Kelley has been working in a Customer Advisor role within a bank, and has now secured a permanent role with Sentinel Healthcare.

This is what Kelley shared:

“It's helped reassure me, like having a bit of hand holding if that's the right phrase. It's been good to know there is somebody there to help if I need it. It's like a full time job in itself looking for work, and it's quite hard, so having Skills Launchpad Plymouth has made me feel like I'm not completely alone. I am very excited about what's next!”

Frankie, 40 signed up to Skills Launchpad Plymouth as he really wanted to work in plumbing. He had all of the relevant qualifications, but lacked the experience, and wasn’t sure of the best approach. Following careers advice from City College Plymouth, he was referred to Skills Launchpad Plymouth for advice and support on finding the best way into the industry.

Spending time with James, our Co-ordinator, it became clear that Frankie had some great work experience from an engineering setting, and was hugely motivated for work.

Following advice from James, Frankie engaged with National Careers Service, Building Plymouth and Sherford Skills Training Scheme. Within one week, Frankie was offered two jobs, and he got a test date booked to obtain his CSCS card.

This is what Frankie shared about his experience:

“It's really good. It helped build my confidence and gave me details of people for courses and work.”

“I am over the moon about my next steps. Nervous, but I can't wait to start.”

“My experience with Skills Launchpad Plymouth has been brilliant. That's it!”

Like so many recent graduates, one of our Youth Hub members, Mia, 21, found herself unable to find work this summer due to the ongoing pandemic. She signed up to Skills Launchpad Plymouth and after an initial conversation with our Youth Hub Coordinator Jo, was supported with help from the National Careers Service to get herself back on the right path.

Mia said: "The support I received through Skills Launchpad Plymouth was really positive. I've had help to get my maths qualification training lined up which will increase my future prospects, brushed up my CV, gained confidence in my interview skills, and I’ve also now started a Kickstart placement with the Civil Service.”

“I’m feeling good about my next steps now, which is a real relief. Not securing a job after my degree really knocked my confidence, but I now feel like I am on the right path.”

“To describe the Youth Hub in three words, I’d say it’s encouraging, supportive and informative.”

Joseph, 20, was unemployed and looking for opportunities after gaining experience in various hospitality and supermarket roles, but not finding anything that he wanted to do long-term. He was told about Skills Launchpad Plymouth by his Personal Advisor, Debbie, who said it could help him to move forward with jobs and training.

Initially attending a Find Your Future session at Barclays, with support from his PA and Barnardos, Joseph completed an initial skills assessment with the Youth Hub Coordinator. After much discussion, it became clear that Joseph really wanted to support other young people and that getting into youth work was his main goal. Following their chat, Jo (Youth Hub Coordinator) referred Joseph to Plymouth Training to see if they could arrange a placement for a Traineeship. This led to Joseph taking up a placement with Livewire in Saltash, which is absolutely loving.

Joseph said: “I’m really pleased that I came along to the Thursday session in Barclays to see Jo, because straight away I was moving forward towards my goal. I didn’t think it could be so quick.

“To begin with I was a bit hesitant about the Traineeship, as the placement I was most interested in was based in Saltash, but Plymouth Training helped me out with the travel costs and the team at Livewire are just amazing!! I’m loving my placement, gaining lots of experience and skills. I feel that I’m now on the best path into youth and community work, which is really exciting.”

Dylan, 16, was referred to Skills Launchpad Plymouth by a friend in the summer when he wasn’t sure what to do after receiving his results. Three-months on, Dylan is settled into his Level 3 BTEC in Engineering and Core Maths at sixth form, and aspires to start an Advanced or Higher Apprenticeship, with Babcock when he finishes.

Dylan said: “Thanks to Skills Launchpad Plymouth, I’m clear on where I want to be. The helpful resources such as the Plymouth Makes and National Careers Service websites, have been so useful.

“Working with Jo, I now know what opportunities are out there, and she even encouraged me to get a part-time job alongside my studies. I would definitely recommend the Youth Hub to anyone. I’m feeling really good about my future.”

After completing his service in the Royal Navy, Sean was navigating the resettlement process and seeking local job opportunities. He needed help with CV writing, building a LinkedIn profile, and understanding how his military skills could apply to civilian jobs. Sean was looking for support to create a clear pathway for his resettlement, explore future roles, find the right support, and establish a sense of belonging in civilian life.

To assist in his transition, we offered personalised career development support. This included helping him translate his military experience into a powerful CV, providing guidance on job searching, and offering opportunities for work experience. Additionally, we connected him with relevant training courses to enhance his employability and provided ongoing wellbeing and resettlement support to help him adapt to civilian life with greater confidence.

We began by tailoring Sean’s CV to highlight his military experience in a way that would resonate with civilian employers. We also helped him build a professional LinkedIn profile to increase his visibility and attract potential employers. Career exploration was a key focus, and we worked with Sean to identify suitable job roles, and the qualifications needed for them. To further his development, we connected him with relevant training opportunities and introduced him to local companies, including Babcock, which led to interviews. Throughout this process, we maintained regular contact, providing ongoing support, job suggestions, and updates on relevant events. We also offered opportunities such as behind-the-scenes sessions and informational events to help broaden his network.

As a result of the support provided, Sean attended a Mechanical and Electrical Engineering insight event and successfully built a LinkedIn profile that attracted interest from employers. His CV, now a strong reflection of his skills and experience, helped him gain traction in the job market. Sean actively participated in career events and continued his job search, ultimately securing employment that met his needs and supported his family. Grateful for the assistance he received, Sean also referred others to our service, recognising the value of the tailored support he had received throughout his resettlement journey.

By providing personalised support and connecting Sean with the right opportunities, we helped him transition successfully from military service to civilian employment. His story demonstrates the power of tailored resettlement assistance in empowering veterans to build meaningful careers after service.

Sam came to Skills Launchpad Plymouth looking for a fresh start. He was employed on an unreliable zero-hour contract and had caring responsibilities for his partner. Seeking guidance on how to transition into a full-time career, Sam was also looking for support with his CV and interview preparation.

Sam is a gifted individual with significant potential, but what he needed was someone to support and guide him through the process. With Rhianne’s help, his confidence soared. Together, they worked on strengthening his CV, enhancing his interview skills, and preparing for opportunities in his chosen field. Rhianne went above and beyond, even reaching out to employees at the company Sam had applied to in order to gain a better understanding of what the company was looking for. This proactive approach allowed them to tailor Sam’s preparation and approach to the interview, ensuring he was well-prepared for success.

Reflecting on the support, Sam said, “Rhianne has been fantastic in supporting my journey to get a better job. She went above and beyond by talking to employees of the company I applied for to gain a better understanding of what the company was looking for. We discussed interview skills and the company I applied for to give me the best opportunity to succeed. Her well-rounded approach helped me boost my confidence with the interview.”

Thanks to Rhianne's guidance, Sam has made a great impression on a local employer and has been invited for an interview, giving him a significant step toward a more stable and fulfilling career. We are excited to see Sam’s continued growth and success in the future.

Sasika, a 25-year-old recent university graduate, turned to Skills Launchpad Plymouth to help kickstart his career. Although he had strong academic credentials, Sasika felt uncertain about how to improve his employability and identify opportunities within his field. He needed guidance on navigating the job market and enhancing his professional skills.

Through Skills Launchpad Plymouth, Sasika participated in CV reviews, career guidance sessions, and workshops designed to help him develop his professional skills. He found the team to be approachable and supportive, making the often-daunting process of job searching feel much more manageable. The guidance he received gave him the confidence to pursue his career goals with a clearer focus.

As a result of the support he received, Sasika secured a six-month contract. This position has provided him with valuable work experience and the opportunity to advance in his current role. He is now focused on building on this experience while working toward his long-term goal of obtaining a sponsored position in his field.

Reflecting on his experience, Sasika shared, “Skills Launchpad Plymouth was friendly, insightful, and encouraging. Their guidance gave me the confidence to pursue my career goals.” His journey with Skills Launchpad Plymouth not only helped him secure immediate employment but also empowered him to confidently plan for his future career.

Carl completed his full service in the British Army and was struggling with the resettlement process. Feeling lost, he needed more than just a job—he sought hope, direction, and a role that would support his family while offering the flexibility to meet their needs.

Carl required support in several key areas: career development, skills and training, and wellbeing and resettlement. He needed help translating his military experience into a powerful CV, guidance on job searching, and opportunities for work experience. Additionally, he sought access to relevant courses, employability support, and guidance to adapt to civilian life and regain his confidence.

We first met Carl at the BFRS careers event, where he was taking his initial steps towards a new future. To support his career exploration, we invited him to attend a two-day Mechanical and Electrical Engineering event with Building Plymouth. There, Carl explored pathways into the construction industry, discovered how his military skills could transfer, and gained firsthand experience with local construction companies.

To assist with his CV and job search, we helped Carl develop a CV that effectively highlighted his skills and military experience. We provided information on relevant job roles and guided him through the application process. We also helped him contact hiring officers to learn more about specific roles and tailor his applications.

Understanding the importance of building skills, we suggested additional training and connected Carl with Imployable for further pre-employability support. We kept him updated with relevant job opportunities and provided clarity on the role requirements.

Throughout the process, we maintained regular contact via emails, phone calls, and face-to-face meetings, celebrating his successes along the way. We attended his graduation from the Building Heroes course and directed him to events and networking opportunities to further enhance his chances of securing employment.

As a result, Carl attended the Mechanical and Electrical Engineering event and completed the Building Heroes construction course, earning his CSCS card. He actively sought employment, engaged with local career events, and eventually secured a job that met both his financial and family needs. Throughout this journey, Carl regained his confidence and felt supported every step of the way.

Through tailored support, Carl successfully transitioned from military to civilian employment. He gained new skills, found suitable work, and felt empowered to start a new chapter in his life.

Kylara came to our Youth Hub Coordinator, Rhianne, with a desire to re-enter the workforce, specifically in the education sector, but felt uncertain about how to move forward. As Kylara is a care leaver, the wrap-around support of the Youth Hub played a pivotal role in helping her to regain her confidence and clarity about her career path. Through personalised guidance and encouragement, Rhianne offered a range of tailored activities and resources that helped Kylara explore her options and build the skills needed to re-enter training.

One of the first steps in Kylara's journey was her participation in the Youth Hub volunteering days with Plymouth Sound National Marine Park and at the National Marine Aquarium. These experiences gave her hands-on exposure to roles that were both educational and aligned with her interests. Through these volunteer opportunities, Kylara gained practical insights into the sector, while also improving her confidence and communication skills.

In addition to these experiences, Kylara enrolled on the Green Skills Bootcamp with On Course South West. This programme not only deepened her understanding of sustainable practices but also allowed her to develop new, transferable skills that would be valuable in both educational settings and broader professional environments.

Feeling empowered by these opportunities and the continuous support from the Youth Hub Coordinator, Kylara took the bold step of applying for a GCSE Science course. This decision marks a significant shift in her career trajectory, as she is now actively pursuing qualifications that will enable her to work in education. Through skills-building, confidence-boosting activities, and career guidance, Kylara now feels prepared to take these important steps toward her future in education and training.

Kylara is really grateful to Rhianne for supporting her to take these next steps.

Sarah, a 38-year-old working professional, came to Skills Launchpad Plymouth seeking support as she navigated a challenging time in her life. She was considering separating from her partner and faced the uncertainty of adjusting to life as a single parent of three, whilst maintaining her career. In addition to the emotional challenges, Sarah was unsure about her financial situation and needed guidance on accessing the appropriate benefits, as well as mental health support.

Sarah's first step was to connect with Skills Launchpad Plymouth, where she received initial advice and direction on how to move forward. The team worked closely with her to understand her needs, particularly in accessing benefits and improving her mental health well-being during this period of transition. As Sarah's situation was complex, Skills Launchpad Plymouth facilitated a coordinated wraparound approach by involving other support agencies, including DWP Work Coaches and Citizens Advice, to ensure all aspects of her needs were met.

One of the key tools used to help Sarah was the EntitledTo website, which provides a clear overview of her eligibility for various benefits and financial support. By inputting her details into the website, Sarah was able to see the range of benefits she could claim, including Universal Credit, housing benefits, and child support, which helped to reduce her financial worries. The guidance from the DWP Work Coach ensured that Sarah understood how to apply for these benefits and helped her navigate the process step-by-step.

In addition to the financial support, Sarah was also connected with mental health services through Skills Launchpad Plymouth. Recognising the emotional toll of her situation, the team provided valuable resources and recommended local counselling services to help Sarah cope with the mental strain she was experiencing. Citizens Advice also played a vital role in ensuring Sarah understood her rights and helped her navigate her housing situation, giving her the confidence to make informed decisions.

With the combined support from DWP Work Coaches, Citizens Advice, and Skills Launchpad Plymouth, Sarah gained a sense of clarity and empowerment. She successfully accessed the benefits she was entitled to, received the mental health support she needed, and felt better equipped to manage her personal and professional life moving forward.

Sarah expressed her gratitude, saying, "The support from Skills Launchpad Plymouth and the other agencies was a lifeline. I felt overwhelmed at first, but with their help, I now feel much more confident about my future. The advice on benefits and mental health services was invaluable in helping me take control of my situation, for myself, and my children.”

Through a holistic and collaborative approach, Sarah was able to transition smoothly through a difficult period and start her new chapter with the right resources in place to support her ongoing independence and well-being.

Jelena first met Visitor Economy Coordinator James at the Job Centre’s Apprenticeship Event held at the University of Plymouth. After having a conversation, it was clear that Jelena had plenty of hospitality experience, mostly in fast paced takeaway environments. She had more recently been working in retail, but was longing to get back in the kitchen!

James invited Jelena to a subsequent drop-in held at Skills Launchpad Plymouth where she came and spoke to the Operations Manager of Leonardo Hotel about Kitchen Assistant/Commis Chef roles. Though it was a positive employer engagement experience, Jelena was unsuccessful and continued her job searching.

She re-engaged with James a month or so later and attended Skills Launchpad Plymouth for a face to face appointment. Here she received advice and guidance around job searching and CV support. The main focus was to help develop more detail around the range of transferable skills that Jelena had, not to mention her varied kitchen experience.

Soon after her appointment, Jelena reached out to James to let him know that she had been successful in gaining employment at Wingstop. She had attended an assessment day, and even though there had been huge interest in the role, she was successful.

It was clear that due to Jelena’s previous experience, she would be a great fit for the role.

Jelena said “ I am really happy with myself, especially knowing how big the competition was. I feel I'm at the right place”

Jayne was referred directly to Welcoming Plymouth by a Work Coach at Devonport Job Centre. They had received some great feedback about another customer’s experience with our co-ordinator James.

Jayne and James spoke for some time on the phone, discussing her wealth of experience in the hospitality sector, as well as the personal challenges she had faced over the last four years. After taking some time, she had decided it was the right time to get back into work. However, she felt that she was not having much luck, receiving rejections, despite her varied skillset.

In addition to a few job ideas and reviewing Jayne’s CV, a large part of their conversations revolved around interview preparation for an upcoming interview with the Flaming Grill. Despite Jayne being given great feedback in the interview, she got a call from their head office to say that unfortunately the role had gone to an internal candidate. This left Jayne quite disheartened but, before too long, things had changed.

When James checked in with Jayne a few weeks later, she had great news to share. She had a job as a Team Leader in a pub.

Jayne said “I have been there for over a week now and it’s going really well. Thank you so much for your help and support through all this. It’s been a massive help.”