BRETT’S STORY
P E T-X i C A S E S T U DY Brett Farrier-Smith, 40, from Milton Keynes, had struggled to find steady employment due to his ADHD and learning difficulties. In 2015 he became homeless. Despite being a good problem solver, and having plenty of experience in warehousing and labouring, Brett’s confidence dropped as he found it difficult to provide a regular income and his future became uncertain. Brett found support from his local YMCA before his Job Centre advisor put him in touch with PET-Xi with a view to enhancing his employability to get his life back on track.
Support provided by PET-Xi Brett was enrolled onto PET-Xi’s Team Leading course where he received an immediate boost to his confidence, and expressed a desire to carry on learning when funding became available. He then gained Level 2 qualifications in IT and Customer Service, and was invited to take part in an interview process with Gloucestershire-based housing support company Mears Group. An online meeting with a representative from Mears was organised by PET-Xi Recruitment and Progressions Co-ordinator, Harry Craker to provide Brett and his fellow learners with guidance on the application process. Harry said: “Brett made an excellent impression with everyone he worked with during his PET-Xi courses because of his willingness to ask questions and contribute in group situations. “He had an obvious desire to better himself and worked very hard to extract as much as possible from each session before really impressing in the interview process.”
The outcome Brett was offered a role at the Mears Group to provide assistance over the phone and resolve queries for people living in social housing, ensuring a return to employment after a lengthy absence and difficult personal circumstances.