With help from her careers adviser, Angela found a new job that gave her back her confidence.
Angela, 55, from Cardiff, worked as a teaching assistant for 16 years.
Due to changes at her workplace, she became unhappy in her role to the point where she "didn't look forward to going in". Her emotional wellbeing started to suffer.
Angela got in touch with Working Wales to ask for help. She made an appointment with Linda Thomas, a careers adviser in Cardiff.
Finding the next step
After being in the same job for so long, Angela was not confident she could do anything else. Angela and Linda explored different job ideas together. They discussed what transferable skills Angela could use in a new role.
Linda sent Angela a job listing she thought would suit her. Although unsure at first, Angela decided to give it a go.
She said: “Linda helped me with the application form. She was so encouraging, and we have done everything together step by step. She was absolutely amazing. I couldn’t have done it without her.”
Angela went through a mock interview with Linda to help her prepare and calm her nerves.
“Linda answered all my questions. Every ‘what if.’ She kept in contact from the start and was always there. I can’t praise her enough.”
Angela went for the interview and got the job with Cardiff Council as an ‘Independent Travel Trainer’, which she started in March 2025.
A new start with new confidence
Angela works now with young adults with additional learning needs. She trains them to travel independently to school or college using public transport.
She said: “It’s fantastic. I’m very happy. It’s very rewarding when you see the difference you’re making.
“I feel like I can do anything now. Since I’ve started this job, I’ve also been on new courses and I’m learning other things and broadening my education. I’m confident and I feel better about myself.”
Advice to others
Angela now encourages her friends to seek help if they feel stuck: “If I can do it, you can do it. You just have to be brave and take that step.
“My biggest advice? Go to Working Wales. They have some amazing staff. And don’t hold back if you’re feeling unhappy with where you are. Only you can change things. It’s a big leap but it’s so worth it.”
If you've been inspired by Angela's story, you can book a free career review to help you make a career change.
