Fair Start Scotland gave me a reason to smile again

“Now I have a job it’s like night and day. I feel better than I have in years. I have a reason to smile when I wake up now. It’s a wonderful feeling.” Keith, a Fair Start Scotland participant, Livingston

Why Keith joined Fair Start Scotland service  Keith is originally from Glasgow but was living in Livingston at the time when he was referred to us by Jobcentre Plus.

Keith had a long history of working in the public and private sector before he became unemployed which knocked his confidence and self-belief. He decided to join Fair Start Scotland to get the support he needed to get back in the job market. 

How Fair Start Scotland helped  When Keith first joined Fair Start Scotland he was introduced to his personal adviser, Susan Allan. She worked with Keith throughout his journey and was able to assess his approach and mindset towards work, slowly boosting his confidence along the way. 

Keith attended weekly meetings and set himself regular goals, he also received help and support to manage his household finances. Within just six weeks of being with the service, he was successful in landing an IT role in Dundee and has been able to establish financial independence again. 

He said: “Being out of work was horrible. It was soul-destroying and embarrassing. Before I met Susan and the team it was a slog to get up each day.

“Initially it was all about positive energy. I had an immediate rapport with the team. It was obvious they knew what they were talking about. I always looked forward to attending the appointments as I knew I’d feel better after them."

Susan, personal adviser for StartScotland said: “Working with Keith was a pleasure and his success really makes my job worthwhile. He keeps in touch regularly and I am very, very proud of all of his achievements. He was ready to listen and take action on what he needed to change and was a real joy to work with.”

Keith is now receiving in-work support should any issues arise.