Richmond Work Match celebrates 250th job placement

Read about how our Richmond Work Match service helps local people secure employment through personalised support and guidance, from the perspective of the 250th resident supported to find a job.

Richmond Work Match is a free career service offering employment advice, guidance and training. We aim to turn challenges into opportunities and empower residents to achieve their goals with tailored support and care. 

Below, Amira, the 250th resident to find a job through Richmond Work Match, shares her story. 

How did you hear about Richmond Work Match?

I was attending Richmond and Hillcroft Adult Community College (RHACC), studying English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) and care qualifications, and needed to find a part-time job. Lee (a guidance advisor) from RHACC called Ricky (an officer from Richmond Work Match), and we scheduled a meeting at his office.

What was your situation before Work Match?

Before Work Match, I was struggling to find work. I wasn’t sure how to apply online and received so many spam emails that I couldn't tell what was real. I was living with a friend and needed to get a job to be able to move out.

What was your experience once you registered with Work Match?

Once I registered with Work Match, Ricky helped me create my CV and apply for jobs. He listened to me and understood my situation and needs.

What actions did you take to secure work?

I attended Ricky’s office in Patch Twickenham, and we went through the Work Match jobs. Ricky also looked online and helped me apply and sign up to the required websites. Ricky got me a zero-hour contract role with a local care provider, but I still needed to find something more stable, so I continued to attend weekly job searches with Ricky at the office. Ricky also helped with my Italian citizenship. We had to log into the website, upload documents and complete a lengthy form. It was important to me, and Ricky helped to make sure it was done.

What job did you find?

Ricky’s colleague was recruiting for catering assistants in local primary schools. It was part-time and consistent, just what I needed. I am now working 16 hours a week, not far from my house. I am learning new skills and developing my English in a fun environment.

What does it mean to you?

Without Work Match, I might still be unemployed. I have dealt with other councils before, and none have had a service like this. If all councils were like this one, the world would be a better place. It reassures me that I can access a service like this if I need help in the future.

Would you recommend Work Match?

If any of my friends, neighbours or relatives need to find work and get support from people who take the time to listen and understand, I would definitely recommend they register with Work Match.