Case Study

Matthew rings up a new start

24 Jul. 2026

Personalised support can make a meaningful difference for young people navigating a tough job market – and 21‑year‑old Matthew from Reddish, Stockport is proof.  

After struggling with the ‘no work experience’ trap, he was equipped with the tools and confidence he needed to secure work in just four Restart Scheme appointments. 

Today, he is thriving in his new role as a customer advisor for a leading retailer, a huge achievement after a period of unemployment that affected his confidence and wellbeing. 

Despite completing a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Uniform Protective Services in 2023 and gaining voluntary experience as a cashier for a cancer charity, Matthew struggled to break through the common barrier many young people face: needing experience to get a job, yet needing a job to gain experience. 

“When I was applying for jobs, I’d never hear back,” Matthew says. “It makes you think, ‘have I done something wrong?’ It’s really disheartening.” 
 
Matthew secured a temporary Christmas retail role, but when it ended in early 2026, his confidence took a knock. With ambitions to eventually join the police or armed forces, he felt stuck and unable to progress towards the fitness requirements needed for those careers. 

A referral onto the programme by his local Jobcentre Plus work coach introduced Matthew to the Restart Scheme in Stockport, where he met his Restart Advisor, Doud. From their first meeting, Matthew felt supported and understood. The Restart Scheme offered a practical, encouraging environment that helped him rebuild his confidence and focus on his strengths. 

“Since joining the Restart Scheme, I’ve had four meetings with my Restart Advisor, Doud,” he explains. “With each appointment, I started to feel more positive and believed again that I could take on the challenges life throws at me.” 

Doud worked closely with Matthew to refresh his CV, highlighting the valuable customer service skills he had gained. He also provided tailored interview preparation, introduced him to new job ‑search tools, and encouraged him to explore a wider range of opportunities. Armed with renewed motivation and supported by the right guidance, Matthew successfully secured a 30‑hour‑a‑week customer advisor role with a major DIY retailer. 
 

A role that fits the bill 

Now, Matthew is flourishing. He supports customers on the shop floor, operates both main and self‑serve tills, and helps manage the car park. His friendly, positive attitude has already earned him excellent feedback from customers and colleagues. 

“I am very happy in this role and feel it is a great fit for me,” he says. Working in a supportive team and interacting with customers every day has helped Matthew regain his sense of purpose and direction. 
 
He now feels optimistic about the future, as his new role gives him the financial independence to focus on his fitness goals and take steps towards a career in the emergency services. 
 
“I received all the support I needed from the Restart Scheme to get back into work quickly,” Matthew ends. “I would like to thank the Restart Scheme and Doud, for all the support, encouragement, and guidance that helped me return to employment and feel positive about my future again.”