"Claire's Own Words"
I joined the JST projects in October 2025 after being referred to Just Straight Talk by the local Job Centre. Although I had some skills, my nerves and anxiety affected my confidence and made it harder for me to use digital services effectively to achieve my goals.
I experience long-term anxiety and other undiagnosed health conditions. At 28, I had never had paid employment, but I had started to build my confidence by caring for family members and volunteering with the Deafblind befriending service. These experiences helped me support others while developing my communication, empathy and understanding.
I was interested in working within the funeral sector because I was drawn to the calm environment and the opportunity to support people at sensitive times. I had previously completed a work experience placement with COOP Funeral Care, which JST found for me; it was challenging but confirmed that this was the right career path for me.
Through the JST projects, they supported me to update my CV online, search for funeral care roles, complete job applications and prepare for interviews. We used online resources and AI tools, including ChatGPT, to practise situational and competency-based interview questions and build my confidence.
When my dream role became available at the COOP Funeral Care branch, I received support from Jo to complete the application, write a strong supporting statement and prepare for the interview. They helped me create worksheets and handouts, practised questions, and discussed examples from my personal and volunteering experience.
Because anxiety was a barrier for me, I also received encouragement and strategies to help me manage the process from Jo, who was very supportive.
I was proud to be offered a Funeral Arranger role with COOP Funeral Care in West Bromwich, starting on 01.12.25. To help me move into employment, Just Straight Talk supported me in downloading the Travel for West Midlands SWIFT app and accessing a four-week bus pass for my first month.
During my final activity session, they also helped me to complete the online new starter information through the COOP employee portal, giving me the confidence to do this independently in the future.
I have made significant progress, overcoming barriers that once felt overwhelming. With the right support, I have moved from having no paid work experience to starting a career in a sector I am passionate about. I feel proud of what I have achieved and excited about my future.
“I wouldn’t have been able to get this job if it weren’t for JST and your help.”
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