Success Stories | Person with convictions
"Initially when first referred to Steps2 I was apprehensive, not convinced that Steps2 would be able to help or indeed actually be active in aiding me to secure employment and I was dubious about committing to working with Steps2. I was involved with similar organisations in the Bedfordshire area before I moved to Essex and found that the organisation barely made contact on a monthly basis, often it would be 2 months before contact was made and then they would only ask for an update. So, based on my previous experience I had a negative view and approach regarding working with Steps2.
"However, in comparison, from day one of receiving contact from Ausra from Steps2, I can only speak highly with confidence of the working relationship that we have built. It has been imperative that we maintain regular contact in order to build the trust and working relationship.
"My needs and barriers with securing work are somewhat complex with the added complexity that I have certain restrictions with regards to securing employment.
"It has taken a month or so for Ausra to be able to tailor the Steps2 service to my needs, requirements and complexities, but Ausra could only do so with the aid of myself providing information as to my barriers to employment. In all honesty, I could have been more forthcoming with my barriers and difficulties and the help that I require, but I had to be confident that Ausra was invested into and serious about helping me to find work before I invested my dedication and time into Steps2. I had to trust that Steps2 was not just another organisation ticking a box for the aid of government and job centre purposes.
"I believe that Ausra has tirelessly worked hard to help and aid me, adapting to the barriers and restrictions that I have presented and face. I believe that Ausra takes on board my feedback to job recommendations that are made and tailors this feedback for the next recommendation.
"For instance, initial recommendations posed a barrier for me as the job required car drivers or a driving licence of which I do not have. Therefore, Ausra has taken this on board, and I believe has invested the time and effort to adapt to this barrier evidenced by the latest job recommendation of a job being within ten minutes walking distance to where I reside. The job stated that a car driver was required due to the location of the job, however, Ausra had obviously researched the travelling distance for me as it was advised that the job was within walking distance of my residence postcode. This demonstrated that Ausra was not only recommending jobs, but time and effort was made to research the job and the relevance, taking into account the barriers that I face. Considering that I live in a small, isolated village with very limited public transport options, it must have taken some time and research for Ausra to find this job recommendation for me. I am very impressed with the service and frequency of communication that Ausra has provided thus far.
"My case is not a straight forward one, I don't live in a large town, I don't drive and I have presented some difficulties for Ausra to aid me with gaining employment.
"I feel that Ausra has listened to and taken on board my complexities and requirements. Ausra has not provided just a generic response with unobtainable and unrealistic job recommendations. I truly believe that I receive a personalised and tailored service from Ausra and Steps2.
"I would highly recommend Steps2 to others having difficulties seeking work. In my opinion Steps2 are dedicated and adaptive to helping those people with convictions that are serious about turning their lives around back into work. Also, in my opinion Steps2 are professional, understanding and empathetic to working with people with convictions and their other clients. I sincerely hope that Steps2 are taken seriously by prospective companies and are seen as a responsible and trustworthy provider of personnel for their companies.
"My opinions and experiences are solely based upon the interaction, dedication, determination, hard work and consistently regular weekly contact with Ausra. Ausra has represented Steps2 to the highest possible level. I am only invested and trusting with Steps2 because of the dedication of Ausra, a true credit to the Steps2 organisation.
"These are my true, open and honest thoughts, experiences and feelings. I will admit myself that I am a tough client to please and would not be as fully committed and engaged with Steps2 if it was not for Ausra. I hope that we can continue our trusted work together and would really like to be able to work with Ausra until I can give the great news that with their help that I have obtained employment.
"Again, a true credit to the Steps2 organisation especially because Ausra is the only contact and knowledge that I have with Steps2. If it wasn't for the dedication and commitment of Ausra I would not be engaged."
- Person with convictions
