The individual stories of the people with and for whom we work often provide a more powerful way of appreciating the difference the Wise Group makes. Below are case studies that demonstrate how far people can change their lives, if given the appropriate support.

Chris, Glasgow

Chris spent 10 years working for Glasgow City Council, during which time he was also a carer for his elderly, dependant parents. Chris subsequently became a full time carer due to the increasing support requirements of his parents. The stress he encountered during this time subsequently resulted in the deterioration of his own health and led to Chris moving onto incapacity related benefits.

Chris contacted the Wise Group’s WorkAble programme in March 2002 looking for support for moving back to work. At this time his confidence and self-esteem were the primary barrier to Chris's ability to re-enter the labour market. With the support of his WorkAble Advisor Chris concentrated on raising his motivation and self-esteem levels. After which, he felt confident enough to engage training in a supported environment within the Wise Group Call Centre.

Chris developed service sector skills during his short time with WorkAble, although, more importantly he continued to develop the personal skills he needed to help him move back into open employment. On completion of his short period of training and work experience, with the support of WorkAble, he successfully secured full-time employment with Response Handling in Glasgow.

Chris said, "Thanks to WorkAble, my life has been turned around"

Sandra had worked in car sales for over twenty years before becoming unemployed. She was referred to the Wise Group’s Working for Health programme by her local Job Centre.

Sandra thought that a career in the NHS sounded interesting but admits that before starting the course she was apprehensive, ‘I was scared’, she explains ‘however, the trainers were excellent and really put me at ease and made the course an enjoyable experience’.

During the course, Sandra completed her NHS work placement within a ward at Glasgow’s Western Infirmary. Sandra’s line manager at the Western was so impressed with her during the placement that she has now successfully secured a permanent position in the same ward as an Auxiliary Nurse. Her new job is initially part time for 21 hours a week, but Sandra hopes that in the future she maybe able to take on more responsibility and increase her hours to a full time basis.

When discussing the Working for Health programme Sandra says ‘it gave me a lot more self confidence’ and I now ‘enjoy getting up in the morning’ to go to work.