Bethany’s Story
Through Inspire’s programmes, Bethany has gained in confidence, learnt new skills and had the confidence to take the next step in her journey.
Bethany lives in a rural part of Woodbridge. With no public transport nearby, getting anywhere has always been a challenge for her. She relies on people in her household for lifts when they are available, but this isn’t always possible. Bethany’s dad is an HGV instructor and driver and is often away, while her mum works in the education sector, so both are working and can’t always support with transport.
Not being able to drive has been the biggest thing holding her back. She had been saving for driving lessons through her previous job, but after being made redundant, she struggled to find work again — mainly because of transport issues.
Living rurally also makes learning to drive difficult, as most instructors won’t travel out to her area, and arranging lifts to meeting points isn’t always possible. With no public transport, even attending interviews or lessons feels like a major barrier for Bethany.
Bethany was referred to Inspire through the DWP, she had not heard of Inspire before but her journey with us has been really positive, she said. Since working with Inspire, Bethany has learnt so much about herself — including skills she didn’t realise she had. Bethany said ‘I’ve also gained a much better understanding of how to improve my CV and what to include and leave out’.
‘The support from James has been incredible. He’s given me honest advice, helped me understand my strengths and weaknesses, and never pressured me into doing anything that didn’t feel right’. Bethany also said ‘The guidance and encouragement I’ve received has made a huge difference to my confidence and outlook’.
I’d especially like to thank James for the time, support, and advice he’s given me. Without Inspire’s help, I genuinely believe I’d still be in the same position I was in before meeting them.
A huge achievement for Bethany on her journey so far.