Kath’s story

Careers support helped Kath rediscover her confidence and explore a new creative career path.

After being made redundant from a job she’d held for nearly two years, Kath found herself at a crossroads. With no redundancy package and the urgent need to find work, she turned to Working Wales for support.

From redundancy to rediscovery

Kath said, “I went along, not knowing what to expect, and I met Rachael, the careers adviser, and she was fab.”

Kath’s career history was varied—she’d worked as a seamstress, a document controller in construction, a PA at a college, and an office manager. But none of these roles had truly excited her.

Sitting with Rachael, she began to reflect on what she really wanted to do.

“I was looking at where my career has gone over the years and realised it's not something I ever chose. It was something I just did and I couldn't get excited about it.”

Finding the right course

During her sessions with Rachael, Kath shared her passion for interior design and home styling - something she’d always loved but never pursued professionally.

Rachael encouraged her to explore this interest further, and together they looked into courses. Kath eventually found a one-to-one, week-long lampshade-making course at Moji Designs in Brighton, which was far more in-depth than the usual evening classes.

She explained, “As soon as I found it, I thought, well, surely I won’t be able to do this, but Rachael was so positive. And I didn't feel stupid anymore.”

Whilst on the course, Kath created high-quality lampshades under the guidance of her tutor, Moji. She then began laying the foundations for a future business—setting up social media accounts, designing a logo, and securing a website name.

Building a new future

Although Kath has since taken on full-time work, her creative venture is still progressing in the background. She’s been in touch with local outlets and artisan venues to showcase her work.

“Where I live in Abergavenny, it is very arty and crafty. There are plenty of little places that would be ideal to sell my work. If I can get a foot in the door, I could certainly see it taking off.”

Kath now sees real potential for her business. She’s even written a business plan and worked through the figures.

“When I sat down and did the business plan, I think that's when I realised this could be a full-time career.”

The power of belief

Kath’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. She was diagnosed with Ménière’s disease, which causes blackouts and dizziness, and lost access to her car. Remote work became a necessity, and finding suitable roles was tough. But Rachael’s support made a world of difference.

“With everything I’d been going through, I suddenly felt very unemployable but Rachael really did give me the boost I needed. Whether she realised she did, I don't know. But she definitely did. I came out with a spring in my step.

“It made a massive difference because Rachael is very positive. I remember coming home and I had said that I actually feel like I've got somebody that believes in me.

To anyone considering reaching out to Working Wales, Kath has one clear message.

“100% do it. Just do something you want to do, ask the questions, and find out if it's possible. Until you ask the questions, you don't know what is.”

If you would like to explore your interests and opportunities with a careers adviser, please contact us today.

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