Dealing with sciatica – Anita’s story

Anita joined Better Working Futures with concerns about her mobility issues, caused by an accident which had brought on severe sciatica.

Anita had concerns about meeting new employers, as her sciatica and mobility are intermittent and not visible. Knowing how she had struggled in her previous role as a hairdresser, Anita was worried this would affect her in a new job.

“I was dismissed from work in 2018. I had my little boy and didn't know what I wanted to do with my time”, said Anita. “My anxiety and mental health were low in relation to work and paving a future for me and my little boy.

“During one of my appointments with my Universal Credit Coach, it was suggested to attend Reed in Partnership as they specialised in working with people with disabilities. I am glad they suggested it and I attended.”

Anita’s Employment Adviser, Michael, explored roles which cater to mobility barriers, including working from home. From this discussion, they were able to assess which roles Anita was interested in applying for, and together they created a bespoke CV.

As it had been a long time since Anita last applied for any jobs or had an interview (her previous role lasted for 15 years), Michael made sure that Anita received lots of support from the team to increase her confidence, including mock interviews and interview preparation.

Anita took advantage of our free, in-house Health and Wellbeing sessions, completing the Mindfulness, Eating Well and Sleeping Well workshops. She told us how these sessions built her confidence and made her feel more physically and mentally prepared and at ease with her previous daunting thoughts of returning to work. She said:

“These sessions have really helped me and were very informative. I’ve gained the confidence to apply for jobs, go for interviews and look at things in a positive and grateful way, in all aspects of my life.”

Anita was successful in securing a job in credit control, which was her preferred sector!

“Even when I got employment, I was supported throughout my time there.

“I would definitely recommend Reed in Partnership and Better Working Futures. They are welcoming, understanding, non-judgemental, listen and approachable.

“Thank you, Michael, Sam and Christine; without your help and support I don't think I would have been able to apply for a job and confidently get it!”