Dawn Stoddard, 47, from Chorley, had spent 12 years out of
work. But with the help of learndirect, she's achieved
the qualifications needed to get a job as a tutor and assessor. Dawn has
now been awarded an MBE thanks to her dedication to learning and getting
back to work after so many years of unemployment.
She's also doing a great service to the community by working with people with mental health issues in her new role and introducing new people to learndirect. "These sorts of things don't happen to people like me. I'm thrilled to bits but I'm in shock at the moment," says Dawn.
Having suffered from health issues herself, Dawn also nursed her terminally ill father, who encouraged her to make sure that when he passed away she got the qualifications she needed to help her get back into work.
After applying for a range of jobs with no success, Dawn came to her local learndirect centre.
"I went to learndirect as I was computer illiterate, which I felt was holding me back from getting a job," she says. "When I walked into the centre I immediately felt at ease. There was a great atmosphere and the tutors were very understanding of the other commitments I had."
Her learndirect tutors suggested that Dawn focus on her maths, English and IT skills.
"It's a very flexible system which allows you to do your learning online at home. I often emailed them with queries I had and they'd be happy to help," says Dawn.
"What's more, I didn't have to pay for my qualifications because I wasn't working."
In time Dawn felt she'd gained enough confidence to apply for a job as a community support worker. She got the job and has since been promoted to a tutor and assessor.
"Without the help, support and confidence boost I have received from learndirect, I believe I would still be out of work. I'd advise anyone to walk through those doors and get started!"
Thanks for your help,
The learndirect team