“The programme helped me with my confidence” – Marilyn’s Story

22-year-old Marilyn found out about Groundwork in early 2025 after speaking to her GP about how she could manage her anxiety.

She first met our Employment Coach, Mohammed, at Tameside Library where they got to know each other and discussed her goals.

Groundwork Employment Coaches take a people centered approach to getting into work employment, building a support approach suitable to the individuals needed.

Marilyn was in a good place to start work. She was attending college once a week studying photography and had been volunteering at a local museum. Her confidence was holding her back, but Mohammed was on hand to help her find a job.

They met weekly and undertook activities which improved her confidence, in general and at job interviews. They ran mock interview scenarios and looked for roles together. Marilyn was keen to find a job where she could help others and Mohammed knew a great place.

A role as a Support Coach became available at Groundwork’s Stockport office. Marilyn applied and was successful at getting an interview.

Thanks to her mock interview preparation with Mohammed, the interview went well and she was offered the role, starting work the next week. 

She is enjoying her work so far, taking part in a range of training activities and getting to know the team and work. 

The programme helped me with my confidence, and knowing how to effectively prep for interviews. Also it helped me with knowing how to find suitable roles, and that I received a lot of support from Mohammed so it reduced my anxiety. 

This support was made possible thanks to funding from the GMCA