“I had spent over 20 years working in purchasing and administration in Hong Kong. However, after settling in the UK, I knew I wanted to do something different.” – Ka Man, Kingston

Mum of two, Ka Man joined Kingston’s Get Ready for Work (GRoW) Programme in June after moving from Hong Kong to the UK with her family. She took part in the Successful Summer programme to help bolster her employability skills, utilising the programme’s CV and interview support, confidence-building sessions and additional signposting services through the GRoW app, to help her find a new role.

“My first interview was for an administrative role in a school, and although I didn’t get the job, I learned a lot from the experience. The GRoW team suggested I complete an online safeguarding course to boost my understanding of school environments and strengthen my future applications.”

“This course turned out to be crucial because when I later interviewed for a play leader role at an after-school club, I was asked questions about safeguarding. Thanks to the course, I was confident in my answers and knew exactly what was expected in that environment. Now, I’m working there Monday to Thursday, 15:00 – 18:00, which is perfect in terms of still being able to be there for my children and gaining back some financial independence.”

“The support I received from the GRoW Programme was key to helping me regain my confidence and find a job that fits my life. Without their help, especially with interview preparation, I don’t think I would have secured this role as quickly as I did. I hope my story encourages other women in similar situations to know that with the right support, it is possible to find a job that works for you and your family.”

About the UKSPF People and Skills Programme

The People and Skills programme, led by the South London Partnership, is an employment support initiative seeking to help people from South London re-enter the workforce and find new, good jobs. Funded by the national government’s UKSPF (UK Shared Prosperity Fund), six projects are being delivered across our boroughs of Croydon, Kingston, Merton, Richmond and Sutton to support local residents. Find out more