Meet Toby
Work is really important to me. I am a grown man now and need money.
Toby
Toby has always been keen to work and learn new skills. He has spent a lot of time learning computer skills and attending courses at his local Adult Education Centre. He likes keeping things in order and got so frustrated that the videos were out of order in his local library that he volunteered to spend time every week to help maintain this section. He really enjoyed being a valued staff member and this helped him decide that he wanted to work in an office, where he could help with general office tasks and also earn an income.
Toby was referred to our supported employment team 'CONTACT' in early 2004, who helped him gain part-time work as an Administration Assistant at Reading Borough Council. Toby's role included a variety of tasks such as photocopying, paper shredding, packing envelopes and putting together files. He enjoyed working within an office and quickly made friends with his colleagues. As his confidence and self-esteem increased he was able to complete tasks at a faster pace.
Before beginning this job, Toby was not a regular user of public transport, but after a short period of travelling to the office with aid of his advisor, Toby can now use the buses with ease. Being in paid employment has helped Toby in so many ways, not just financially.
After a little more experience, Toby then applied for a new role at the council and with the support of his adviser, completed all the necessary paperwork. His application was successful and he now works one morning a week. He now only requires limited support to carry out his work tasks and is really enjoying the job.
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