After finding out about the variety of different career routes available in the care sector Michael decided he wanted to work with autistic people. He reached his goal, gaining employment with Choice Support as a Support Worker. Eight months on he is still confident he made the right decision.

Michael was a successful shop fitter before being made redundant. He took the opportunity to assess what he really wanted from a career. He says, “Care work was something I knew was in me – it seemed to fit my personality.” With this in mind Michael applied for a pre-employment training programme at Care Training East Midlands (CTEM).

At the beginning of the programme Michael found out about the variety of routes available in the care sector. He decided that – at this point in time – he was interested in working with adults with autism.

After completing some training and employability workshops Michael spotted an advert in the Nottingham Evening Post for a Support Worker at Choice Support. Michael had a few doubts about whether he should apply. Jess, his adviser at CTEM, guided him through the application pack, making sure he was selling himself in the best way possible. Michael says, “It was the strength of the training that made me realise I could apply.”

Michael was offered an interview with Choice Support and was successful in gaining a position. Michael says, “The training I had received enlightened me to what I was getting into. I would have been far more nervous without the training.” 
Eight months later Michael is still works at Choice Support; supporting autistic people to live in their own home and working with them within the community. Michael says, “It’s very rewarding.”

Michael is enjoying where he is within the organisation and will start the NVQ in Health & Social Care Level 2 soon. Michael plans to stay with Choice Support for the future and says, “I might like to try other departments at Choice Support and experience other elements of the care sector, but at the moment I am finding autism a very interesting field and really enjoy it.” 

Michael really enjoyed his time with CTEM. “It was very positive. The enthusiasm of the staff goes a long way to make sure you feel welcome. You know the support and guidance is there when you need it.”

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