Amy has encountered several barriers in her journey to seek employment. She was referred to Cedar Foundation by her Tutor at Belfast Met and joined the SKillSET programme. Working with her Case Officer, Liz, she engaged in employability skills development sessions, CV building training and exploring suitable work opportunities. Amy also attended Cedar’s Job Club.

With support to join the Ravine Project as a trainee for several months Amy discovered and developed a wide range of skills. This experience involved doing horticulture and personal development activities as well as travel training. Following that a placement with the Belfast City Council HR team provided the opportunity to gain valuable office skills. 

During this time Amy faced personal illness and family caring responsibilities, however, Liz supported Amy to continue with job searching and an opportunity on the Job Start scheme arose with Youth Action for an Admin Assistant.

Amy made the most of the job interview planning and preparation offered on the programme and was successful in securing this post. 

What is Skillset?

SkillSET is a new innovative programme of specialist employment preparation and training, for people with a disability / health condition who are economically inactive. Cedar is delivering the service across NI as part of a partnership of seven disability organisations.

SkillSET Cedar aims to enhance the life chances of economically inactive disabled people by delivering specialised pre-employment training, on the job mentoring and the creation of sustainable employment opportunities. Find out more on our dedicated page.