Llangollen attractions help Andrew’s journey to independence

* Llangollen Railway was one of the places where Andrew volunteered.

Stints volunteering with some of Llangollen's top tourist attractions helped a man rebuild his life after suffering a brain injury.

Andrew, who lives in Denbighshire, sustained his injury in a car accident in 2021, leaving him reliant on his family.

But he has since achieved a life-changing milestone, moving from volunteering to paid employment, thanks to his determination and the support of the Working Denbighshire scheme.

This is part funded through the Welsh Government Communities for Work Plus Programme which supports those most disadvantaged in the labour market to overcome the barriers preventing them from gaining employment. It is also part funded by UK Government.

 

Andrew's story shines a light on how employability services can help people rebuild their lives after facing major challenges.

 

In March 2023, his family sought help from Working Denbighshire, where Andrew was matched with Mentor Jen, who developed a personalised plan to support his journey to independence.

 

Andrew’s plan focused on securing a volunteering role as a step towards paid employment. It included: 

• Finding a volunteering role suited to his abilities
• Improving communication and confidence
• Crafting a tailored CV
• Supporting his wellbeing and independence

 

With support from an employment coordinator, Jen followed Andrew’s progress, to ensure he stayed on track.

 

By May 2023, Andrew started volunteering at Plas Newydd in Llangollen, gradually building his confidence and even taking the bus independently for the first time since his accident. 

By August, he took on new challenges, including volunteering at the Llangollen Eisteddfod, which boosted his independence and made his family proud.

 

In April 2024, Andrew expanded his volunteering experience to Llangollen Railway, where he developed new skills. By August, his hard work paid off, and he secured a paid role through the Work Start Scheme, starting in September.

 

Andrew’s journey from relying on family support to securing employment highlights the difference Working Denbighshire’s tailored approach can make.

 

He said: "My family and I had fantastic support from Working Denbighshire, especially from Jen, who was always just a phone call away. Their support took a huge weight off my wife's shoulders, and at one point, I thought returning to work would be impossible but with their help, I’ve now secured paid employment."

 

Jen, Working Denbighshire Employment & Skills Mentor, said: "I'm incredibly proud of all that Andrew has accomplished. He and his wife appreciated having a reliable point of contact for support, and I feel honoured to have been part of his journey."

 

Councillor Jason McLellan, Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Economic Growth & Tackling Deprivation, said: “Andrew’s story highlights how important it is to provide people with the right support at the right time. His success is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when someone’s determination is matched with targeted guidance. We’re so proud of everything he has achieved.”

 

* For more information about Working Denbighshire and the support it offers, visit www.denbighshire.gov.uk/en/jobs-and-employees/working-denbighshire/working-denbighshire.aspx