Nataly was referred for ETU support by a colleague in Community Learning and Development (CLD) back in 2023. She had been practising her English in ESOL class, having moved to Scotland with her family just before lockdown, but had not had the experience of being able to fully integrate in the community. Keen to work, she took a role at Pizza Hut but knew she wanted to build her communication skills in the workplace so she could work in childcare. Nataly also volunteered with Falkirk Council Leisure and Culture.

Supported by her Employment and Training Coordinator, Wendy, Nataly began to make progress towards her career goal. Wendy identified certificated training that would support a move into the childcare industry including Food Hygiene and Emergency First Aid. She also supported Nataly to move towards work, making links with a local employer, Kidz Stop to discuss their recruitment plans. After a successful interview, Nataly was offered a 22-hour contract with Kidz Stop as nursery assistant, which was further increased to 30 hours per week.

Nataly is now in a full-time position with Kidz Stop, working on her qualification - Social Services (Children and Young People).

As Nataly says: "I feel very proud of myself. I'm in my 40’s and I’ve started a new career and a new life in a new country and a new culture, and all of this in a different language. Working with ETU was a positive experience because I always felt supported. However, my favourite part was that Wendy never gave up on me. She always sent me emails with training courses and job opportunities."

She continues: "Support through the ETU made a huge difference in my process of starting again. They didn’t just support me through the entire process of finding a new job; they also helped me start a new career in childcare from zero. They encouraged me to trust in myself, in my abilities, and in continuing to work towards wherever is necessary to improve myself. I feel that I’m not alone. Thank you."