H and James, the Financial Capability Workers for the Better Off Finance Project at Citizens Advice Wirral, met with David at the end of 2016 for support with a reluctant claim for ESA (Employment and Support Allowance) as he had been made redundant from his job in the summer. Since the loss of his job he had been struggling with depression and described himself as 'at an all time low'.
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| David (middle) and his BBO Financial Key Workers; James Callaway and Helen Panayiotou |
David is a 40 year old man who lives in Wirral with his partner who was also struggling with depression and claiming out of work benefits. The couple also have a young child who lives with them for part of the week, and David had said that he felt he was letting everyone down by not being in work.
In January, H and James contacted David and asked if he would like to attend a presentation about the Better Off Finance project and see what support it could offer. David was somewhat sceptical at the time, but stated he would 'Give it a go'.
Since his enrolment on the project in January, he has completed several sessions on debts, budgeting, energy cost comparison and shopping around for better deals as part of a group with the key workers and had 6 group session within the WEA organisation (Workers Educational Association)
David felt that being in a group environment with people who understood how he felt was 'invaluable'. He stated that his confidence had increased and he felt better able to showcase his skills in a positive and confident way.
After attending the sessions David applied for a job as a delivery driver within ASDA, gaining part time employment and applied for a teaching post with the WEA which he is waiting to hear back from. He said he also felt confident enough to explore the tutoring role as a business.
On being asked what he would say to someone else who was thinking about accessing the support of Better Off Finance and WEA, David said;
'I would strongly encourage anyone to take part, you will gain great advice and knowledge and also meet people in similar situations'. More importantly, David stated that; 'I feel I am now back on track after being unemployed and suffering from depression.'
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| David and Karen Bellion from WEA |
About us:
Better Off Finance is offering residents of the Liverpool City Region who are currently unemployed (although don't have to be claiming benefits), a bespoke programme of support. This support will be provided at a local community venue or at home if a participant prefers.
Each participant will be linked up with their own key worker who will support them to:
- Improve their financial capability through 1-2-1 support and group work
- Access employability sessions within the programme
- Access a Level 2 Accredited ‘Money Mentor’ opportunity
- Progress into training and education opportunities
- Prepare and progress into sustainable employment.
Better Off Finance is a program jointly funded by The Big Lottery Fund and European Social Fund as part of the Building Better Opportunities Initiative
