Case Study: Sarah Osmanaj

A full time mother for 8 years, from the London Borough of Havering, Sarah was keen to get into paid employment now that her son was older.

“It was the right time but I was worried because I wanted to go into IT and I hadn’t had any formal training.” Sarah’s fears and lack of experience didn’t stop her. She visited her local employment agency and they told her about a programme that seemed to match her needs.

From the beginning Personal Best was a perfect fit. “I learnt and did many things; meeting and socialising with other people who wanted to better themselves and who enjoyed learning, and testing and understanding my skills. I put my best into the course!”

Her proudest moment since joining Personal Best has been the volunteering opportunities. “Volunteering has opened so many doors for me,” Sarah said. “And it offers flexibility of time, which suits my childcare needs.”

Sarah is pleased with the support she’s had from her tutor and adviser, who managed to get her volunteering work in IT. She also gained administration and office experience at two charities, which has greatly improved her CV to help her find paid work in the future.

Sarah has been pleased by how much she has gained from her six weeks on Personal Best.“My friends and family have seen the changes in me. The PB course brought out the best in me and improved my self confidence as well as opening up doors into training and employment. It’s fun so I’d recommend it to everyone!”

For more information on the Personal Best programme in Havering, click on Havering.