Jennifer’s story

Jennifer moved out of the family home after a breakdown in her relationship with her mother. She contacted Focus Ireland and after a period in a homeless hostel was linked with the Stepping Stone Charity who provided her with independent accommodation in the city centre.

She was then referred to Ready for Work by her support worker. The client immediately impressed us as being independent, capable and a strong communicator; she also had a clear career goal of becoming a childcare worker.

The Ready for Work team sourced a placement in a small family-run childcare business, this being the first time they participated in Ready for Work.

Jennifer said she really enjoyed this work experience and it confirmed for her that childcare is what she’d like to pursue….Here is the feedback she received from the crèche manager:

“I think Jennifer would make an excellent childcare worker. It was a pleasure to have her work with us. Jennifer worked at the same level as my Staff and it was very difficult to believe that she was just on work experience. She used her own initiative but was also a great team player. Whereas she followed instruction at all times, you could rely on her to respond to the needs of children in her care. Jennifer’s friendly manner and ability to listen and her willingness to learn will be a great advantage to her whatever career path she may choose.

I hope she chooses Childcare as she would be a great asset to any Creche.”

Jennifer is now in steady employment with her placement provider and considering taking up further education and training in this field.