P E T-X i C A S E S T U DY
PATRICIA’S STORY
Patricia Groves, who lives in Wellingborough, was a carer for her husband until he passed away three years ago. She then moved into temporary employment but struggled to find further work when the pandemic hit. She was then referred to the Movement to Work scheme, a People Plus national partnership with Tesco to support jobseekers to access vacancies with the retailer, which included a guaranteed interview on the final day. Patricia had already unsuccessfully applied for two vacancies at T esco, so was keen to take part in the programme to both develop her employability skills and gain a better insight into the retailer.
Support provided by PET-Xi As part of the scheme, PET-Xi delivered a one-week Level 2 customer services qualification at the Wellingborough branch of Tesco. The course helped participants learn how to create a professional first impression, how to manage and develop customer relationships and how to respond to complaints and problems using different communication methods. Patricia was also given support with the Tesco application process and was helped to prepare for the interview. In the second week, participants took part in four days of work placements shadowing existing employees before the interview. Harry Craker, of PET-Xi, said: “Patricia was really keen to get back into work, so was very proactive and wanted to make the most of this opportunity.
“She wanted to show exactly what she could do in the interview, so was really engaged throughout the customer services course and during her trial shifts. “After unsuccessfully applying for a position twice, it’s clear that having a Level 2 qualification as well as some work experience really paid off.”
The outcome Patricia was successful in gaining a store assistant role at Tesco following her interview.
“I found the scheme to be very good. Both the course and the work experience really boosted my confidence and gave me the skills and knowledge I needed for the position. “I’m thankful that I took part in the scheme and I’m already enjoying my new position at Tesco.” Patricia Groves Together we work as one The Level 2 customer services qualification was funded by People Plus ESF.
If you would like to do the same course as Patricia we would love to hear from you! To sign up call Owen McKendry on: 07387 412 952 or email: omckendry@pet-xi.co.uk