Overview
Frances is a graduate web developer with ME or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
She needed a part-time job and help disclosing her condition.
Into Work got her a placement in industry which led to a paid job after 8 weeks.
She is now in her first career role and it’s going well.
The full story
Frances came to us as a graduate web developer. She had been freelancing for a few years but was looking for part-time work. As she has ME – sometimes known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome – which results in fluctuations in symptoms and energy levels, she didn’t feel able to take on a full-time role. She needed help with finding and getting the right part-time job and explaining her condition to an employer.
Her Into Work Employment Adviser researched what technical skills and profile would be expected for a salaried role in this field within a private sector organisation. Various companies were then approached to see if they would offer her an unpaid placement. Her CV was updated at this stage.
The aim of the placement was to allow Frances to gain experience and confidence, as well as self-awareness in terms of e.g. stamina. It also offered validation of her creative and technical ability by way of a reference to take forward and add to a CV for future job applications. All this would increase her chances of gaining paid work.
Frances was offered a placement in a web and graphic design company. They were very open to making the adjustments she needed to perform at her best, for example, with flexible hours and regular breaks. Nothing ground-breaking but so effective. She settled in really well and, after only 8 weeks, was offered a part-time paid position! This is unusual but very welcome when it happens – and is a great way for both candidate and employer get to know and understand each other. This can be very beneficial for all and less stressful than traditional recruitment methods.
Frances feels really happy to be in her first salaried career job!
