Building a better life for Pat

We're showcasing some of the amazing from our Building Better Opportunities (BBO) People who have helped transform Customers’ lives.

Here’s Pat’s story.

Pat, who has kindly given us permission to use her real name, gave up a successful career in administration many years ago to become a full-time carer to her brother.

By the time she felt able to return to work in 2022, Pat had unfortunately lost all of her confidence and was worried about being left behind due to the advances in technology over the past few years.

Pat was referred to the Building Better Opportunities programme by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) in Preston, and in stepped Rebecca, one of our Places Impact key workers.

One of the first steps was understanding Pat’s benefits entitlement

Rebecca listened carefully to Pat’s needs. The first steps included helping Pat to understand her benefits entitlement and how to manage her finances which, in the end, greatly improved Pat’s wellbeing.

Rebecca offered tailored support, letting Pat know how she could access Carer’s Allowance so that she could continue to support her brother. Pat also received help from the Household Support Scheme and cost-of-living payments through the DWP.

Rebecca and Pat then worked together to complete a new CV and Rebecca supported Pat with job searching, signposting her to recruitment open days and administration work agencies to help her find employment. As Pat is a natural caregiver, with years of experience caring for family members, they also explored opportunities in health and social care as Pat has the transferable skills for a more meaningful career.

Thanks to support, Pat felt confident enough to begin a new course

As a result of the support she received, Pat was recently enrolled onto a pre-employment course in Administration and Social Care which is delivered by Lancashire Teaching Hospitals, where she gained valuable work experience within the NHS.

Pat was delighted to receive a certificate of achievement; she has updated her skills and is now motivated and confident to progress into employment. She is networking with contacts made through the course and will be an asset to any employer who offers her an opportunity.

What fantastic feedback from one of our Building Better Opportunities Customers and well done to Rebecca!

We wish Pat every success for the future.

Want to find out more?

For more information about the Building Better Opportunites programme, including how you can get involved, click here.