Case Study

Paul’s future is now secure!

21 Dec 2022

Paul Bagley was unemployed for five years after his contract as a labourer came to an end. Now, thanks to the Restart Scheme delivered by Ingeus, he’s back in work – and meeting some of the movers and shakers from the Manchester music scene and beyond! 

Funded by the Department for Work and Pensions, the Restart Scheme helps long-term unemployed people get back to work. Participants are offered guidance and support from experienced advisors to boost their job prospects. Paul, aged 52, from Stockport, was put in touch with Restart Advisors Olivia Lamon and Alex Mitchell after joining the scheme.

Although Paul had experience in labouring, he was keen to switch to the security sector. He did not have the relevant training, so his advisors put him forward for his SIA (Security Industry Authority) and CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) qualifications. CSCS accreditation is required for certain security roles, such as those based on building sites.

The big turning point for Paul came when his advisors signposted him to local job fairs. A security firm was among the exhibitors – and Paul seized the opportunity. “I went along and they invited me to a more formal interview,” he says. The Restart team helped Paul to prepare and he was immediately offered the job.

Paul has now settled into his new job – and he’s loving it. “I’m doing security work for a bar and live venue, looking after the bar staff and making sure everyone behaves themselves,” he says. “I am really enjoying it, they have live acts on regularly. I’ve met some famous musicians and I can get into ticket-only events at a reduced cost, it’s a win-win situation.”

The camaraderie is also great, as Paul is not working alone – he’s got three other security staff on his team. “There are four of us keeping everyone safe. We’ve all got each other’s backs, it’s one big happy family.”

Paul couldn’t be more pleased with his Restart journey and is encouraging other jobseekers to make the most of the scheme. “Go for it! That’s all you can do, it worked for me – and always speak to your advisor because they are the ones that can point you in the right direction. My advisors were fantastic over my time with Ingeus and helped me grow both personally and in my professional career too.”

Ingeus delivers the Restart Scheme in Greater Manchester and Central and West London and is partner to Serco, which delivers Restart in Central West Midlands.
https://ingeus.com/uk/what-we-do/employability/restart-scheme