A MAN is enjoying a new, rewarding job after being out of work for six months.

Damian Dempsey left his previous role as a dental assistant at the start of the pandemic because members of his family were shielding.

The 22-year-old has now joined Citizens Advice Cheshire West (CACW) as an advice line and digital advisor, through a new government scheme.

“I'd signed onto Universal Credit and was continuously looking out for jobs through job search apps, mostly without luck," said Damian.

"My Universal Credit coach then told me about the new Kickstart Scheme and sent me a weekly list of jobs."

Kickstart provides funding to employers to create jobs for 16 to 24 year olds who are on Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment.

Damian said: “I came across the CACW job vacancy and was interested in the fact that the required job skills were similar to those I'd developed during my time as a dental assistant, and the role itself being client-focused was also similar to that in healthcare.

"I'd be able to continue working without posing any risk to my family because the job role is home based, which suited my situation well.”

The scheme is an opportunity for young people to gain experience working in a range of organisations.

Damian added:“ The training is extensive - learning about CACW as an independent charity, developing the correct skills to empower clients whilst gathering sufficient evidence and information to support their needs.

"It's a really nice team and I've been made to feel so welcomed. I'm fully supported by my line manager who I feedback to each day, and am looking forward to getting accustomed to handling calls in the coming weeks.”

Team leader supervisor Nick Gill said: “Damian’s doing really well. He’s completed all of his training and has just started advising on the phone. He’s integrating well into the team and is always one of the first on with a cheery ‘good morning’ on the group chat.”

Damian, whose hobbies include the gym and music production, is hoping that his six month placement with CACW will help to increase his confidence.

“I'd advise those looking at the Kickstart Scheme to try and find something that they feel they'd be suited to and that they'd enjoy doing and would gain beneficial skills from," he said.

"Skills learnt through work don't only apply to the job role but will benefit you throughout your entire working career and life.”