Real-life stories for National Older Workers Week

This week is National Older Workers Week. To celebrate, we wanted to share some stories from across the country of people who have come to the National Careers Service for support.

From changing career, to getting back into work, there are lots of options to help you work differently in your later life.

Simon's Story

Simon came to the National Careers Service for support with a career change. Having been a support worker for 10 years, Simon wanted to make the move into an office role in a social care setting. At his appointment, Simon's adviser helped him to update his CV and explore free training opportunities, with Simon going on to enrol in a business administration distance learning course.

The support he received boosted Simon's confidence, helped him develop new skills, and gave his CV a refresh. Simon has now secured a job as a social care coordinator with a local authority.

Hester's Story

Hester was made redundant after working as a project manager for 30 years. She came to the National Careers Service for tips and support with interviewing and networking.

Hester's adviser gave her a newfound belief in her ability to succeed, and after also attending a group training session, Hester had a successful interview and got a new role in project management.

Lynette's Story

Lynette had been out of work for 10 years when she came to the National Careers Service. Lynette wanted to get a new role, either in customer service or as a driver. Lynette's adviser helped her search for vacancies and potential courses, with Lynette then signing up for online training toward a customer service diploma.

Since her appointment, Lynette has secured a job as a driver for a local organisation, giving her a new sense of purpose and making her feel part of a team again.

Dennis's Story

Dennis decided to return to work after a few years of retirement. He knew that the job market had changed in that time, and came to the National Careers Service for support with vacancy searching online and digital applications.

Dennis’s adviser helped him explore how social media can be used for job searches, and signposted him to community-based support available through his local library to further develop his digital sills. Dennis had a broad range of experience across job roles and sectors, and after some searching has secured a role in a supermarket.

Don’t forget the National Careers Service is here to help. You can chat to an adviser online or via the helpline on 0800 100 900 (lines are open every weekday from 8am- 8pm and between 10am-5pm every Saturday), or check out our dedicated careers advice on our website.