Finding Confidence and a New Direction 

A dedicated mother of three and a skilled tattooist, Kaya, faced many challenges in life. However, her resilience and determination to build a better future for herself and her family led her to seek support through the Restart Scheme at our Reading office.

She was referred to the programme by the Jobcentre Plus while receiving Universal Credit, with the goal of becoming self-employed. Although she had the passion and skills, she needed the right guidance, and encouragement to turn her ambition into reality. From the outset, the support she received was invaluable. Her Adviser, Tania put her forward for several workshops to improve her confidence and skills including, ‘Gearing up for Work’ and ‘Unlocking your potential’.  After attending several workshops, her Adviser signposted her to our Self-Employment partner, Momentic, where she received additional guidance and specialist support to help her on her journey.

With the support from the Restart Scheme and Momentic, she has grown in confidence and now feels productive and focused, with a clear direction in life. Kaya is now comfortably self-employed and earning enough money to support herself and her family.

Looking ahead, Kaya has big ambitions. In the next four years, she hopes to open her own shop, selling her artwork and floral resin pieces, and has already chosen her company name ‘Forever and a Day’. Thanks to the support she has received, she now believes in herself and her ability to achieve her dreams.

Speaking to Kaya about her time on the scheme, she said:

“Alexis and Tania have held my hand step by step, and I am so grateful for both of them.”