On leaving prison, Kyla had spent 6 months looking for work without any luck. To make matters worse, her relationship with her parents had broken down while she was in prison because she was still abusing drugs. She had to rely on the generosity of her friends, sleeping on sofas for a few months before she managed to repair the relationship with her parents.
Whilst Kyla was still attending meetings with her Probation Officer she was told about the Ready for Work programme run by Shekinah Mission on behalf of Business Action on Homelessness. She jumped at the chance and was referred straight away.
She undertook two days’ training to help her prepare for the workplace before starting her two-week unpaid work placement at Ginsters working with the maintenance team. She got the chance to try out gardening, painting and general laboring. Kyla really enjoyed her work placement – she loved the variety and the people that she worked with made her feel relaxed and a part of the team.
At the end of the placement Kyla had a renewed sense of purpose:
“It felt really good to be working and making a difference. I was really proud of myself.”
Kyla is now on a 12 month contract with Ginsters working with the maintenance team .She is enjoying life and feels proud to be able to buy herself and family the things they need.
