Pictured above: Sharon Riley

A Shropshire woman starts afresh having found employment as a Nursery Assistant following a move back to her home town of Shrewsbury.

Sharon Riley, 43, had been living in Huddersfield for the past 21 years, working as a lunchtime supervisor. Following a divorce from her husband, she moved back to Meole Estate in Shrewsbury two years ago. 

Sharon said "Moving back to Shrewsbury gave me and my daughter the fresh start we needed, however it left me unemployed, and after over a year and a half without a job  I realised I needed help."

Sharon came to County Training, Shropshire's largest training provider and part of Shropshire Council, in March 2010 on the ESF Flexible Routeway programme. This programme, which is funded by the European Social Fund, provides individuals with the personalised one-to-one support, advice and guidance they need to help overcome barriers to work and progress into sustainable employment. 

Sharon, who had no IT or job search experience, was supported by staff at County Training, to develop her computer skills. She commented "My life very quickly took a turn for the better as my confidence grew and I began to apply for jobs. In September 2010 I applied for a position as a Nursery Assistant at Tiddlywinks Nursery in Shrewsbury, and was successful, starting my role in October 2010. I am really loving the job and have learnt so many skills during my time with County Training."

Councillor Steve Charmley, Portfolio Holder for Culture and Leisure, commented "If you are currently looking for work and like Sharon could benefit from a helping hand, County Training support around 150 people into work every month and could provide you with the support you need."

If you are unemployed and would like to know more about the support available to you, please contact County Training on 01743 255191.