OSW Work Placement

Sabilah started an NVQ Administration course after a long period out of the labour market. As part of the achievement of the qualification, she was required to complete work placements, one of which was at OSW.

"I was in a car accident which left me physically disabled and mentally affected as I couldn't think about anything else. I was housebound for four years and in that time you lose your confidence as you feel you have nothing to offer. I then decided I wanted to take control of my life again.

I started to do voluntary work as I lacked the confidence to look for work. I did six months voluntary work in office administration and enjoyed it so much I decided to do an NVQ in office administration, which included work placements. I was very lucky that my first work placement was with OSW for three months. I learned how to be a team member and grew more self-confident. I had a taster of what it would be like to go back to work. There were lots of opportunities to learn new things and I was given lots of encouragement.

I now hope to finish my NVQ and then apply for a training course, or look for a part-time job in administration as I now feel ready for work."