David’s ‘real journey’ towards employment

David Black, 23, of Coldstream, has won an award for young people who have overcome personal barriers to move into employment.
SBBN David Black, Tomorrow's People Galashiels October 2015SBBN David Black, Tomorrow's People Galashiels October 2015
SBBN David Black, Tomorrow's People Galashiels October 2015

David completed Tomorrow’s People Galashiels Works! which is a 10 week programme that helps unemployed young people in rural areas find new opportunities.

He was presented with the award at a glittering ceremony in Glasgow on Thursday October 22.

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David went on a real journey throughout his time at Tomorrow’s People. He began applying for numerous jobs, and after a few days alarm bells started to ring for David’s adviser, who could see he was putting in a lot of effort but simply wasn’t hearing back from any employers.

Eventually it was decided that a very gentle conversation needed to be had with David to see if he had ever been tested for Dyslexia. David was very honest and admitted that he had struggled all the way through school. This was a turning point for him as he could finally receive the help he needed. David’s confidence soared and he got some work experience with Radio Borders. He no longer felt the need to hide behind his tablet and a smart, funny, and talkative young man emerged for everyone to see.

Since finishing with Galashiels Works! David has attended an open day with Radio Clyde and wants to learn more about working in radio. He has also started full time work through the employment agency he signed up with in week one with Galashiels Works! He says he’s never been happier.

Scott Wright, Tomorrow’s People adviser in Galashiels, said: “To do what we do and to watch people like David succeed is the reason I enjoy coming into work every day. Galashiels Works! is proud of all the young people we work with as they all have their own success story to tell. To some people it may not seem like much but to the people we work with it makes a huge difference. Little steps can make a journey a lot more manageable, especially if you are not alone.”

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Martin Brookes, CEO of Tomorrow’s People, said: “Tomorrow’s People has been working in Scotland since the charity was set up over 30 years ago and our 
programmes have developed to reflect local circumstances.”