Case Study

Shannon spends lots of time with her twin sister, relying on her to ease the anxiety she’s acquired from living in foster care from an early age. Yet when Shannon joined the Restart Scheme in Manchester for help to find work she independently signed up for a new, week-long residential experience: RISE (Ready, Inspired, Skilled & Employed). Not only has it seen the shy 21-year old go on to qualify and start a career as a teaching assistant, but her twin is also now following in her footsteps, hoping the Restart Scheme can repeat her sister’s success. 

 

After studying for a childcare qualification at college, Shannon struggled to find work, frustrated at the experience required for jobs she was interested in. Attending Ingeus – taking the bus journey with her sister – she gained an updated CV and employability advice but lacked the confidence and self-belief to take the next step. A chance to attend RISE, she says, ‘made me realise that if I can do this, then I can get out there to do jobs’. 

 

Ingeus delivers the Restart Scheme in Greater Manchester and piloted the RISE scheme in late 2025, taking 50 young participants, between 18-24 years-old, to Laches Wood Outdoor Education Centre. Combining fun physical challenges and thought-provoking employability sessions, Shannon knew it could be the boost she needed: 

 

“It sounded fun and I thought it could help me, but I was very anxious about going on my own,” says Shannon, who lives in Ashton. “I’m so glad I pushed myself to do it. The rock climbing was awesome, and the budgeting session was really helpful. The whole week gave me confidence to go further. I feel like I’m handling my anxiety much better and immediately came home and recommended Ingeus to my twin sister.”   

 

Shannon also seized the opportunity to train for a Level 2 Teaching Assistant course, funded and arranged by Ingeus on her return. With the Restart Scheme also making sure her security checks were in place, they recommended her to a partner employer – a local teaching agency. Shannon started work as a teaching assistant in February 2025 and hopes to now gain her Level 3 Early Years qualification to become a qualified nanny.  

 

“I’m very close to two of my sisters and enjoy playing with my six nieces and nephews so would love a job as a nanny,” concludes Shannon. “I’m so happy to have had help from the Restart Scheme and enjoyed everything about attending RISE.  
 
“Maybe my twin will follow in my footsteps again, with the Restart Scheme’s help.”