Me & My Youth Worker - 'Jill is always there if I need support'

- How did you first meet?

Laura: "I dropped out of college earlier this year. I was doing a business administration course at Salford College but didn't enjoy it. I'd done a similar course at school and had done quite well but really struggled when I went to college. In the end, I decided it just wasn't for me so I went to the local Connexions to find out what to do next. They suggested that I try the Entry to Employment programme, which is where I met Jill when I started the course in August."

- What was Laura like when you met?

Jill: "Her self-esteem was quite low. Dropping out of the course had been a bit of a blow and her confidence needed building up. We got her involved in lots of group work, which seemed to help. We also started to look at types of careers she might be interested in doing. She expressed an interest in getting into childcare so we've helped to find her a placement."

- What made you choose childcare?

Laura: "I've always enjoyed looking after my nephews and nieces. When we discussed the different types of placements available, it was the one I liked the sound of the most. Jill and the team at Rathbone helped me find a placement at a local nursery that I really enjoy. I like it so much that I recently started an apprenticeship in childcare so that I can eventually get a permanent job."

- What do think about Jill?

Laura: "She's been great.

She has helped me a lot with everything. Jill and the other workers are always there if you need support."

- And how has Laura changed?

Jill: "Taking part in the Entry to Employment scheme really made a difference to her confidence. She is much more able to speak to people openly and say what she's thinking. The apprenticeship will hopefully give her a goal and let her progress in her career. I'm hopeful she'll do well in childcare. It has just been a case of finding something that she feels comfortable doing."