“Talking about my health from the beginning removed a lot of the anxieties about being in a new place with new people.”

“My name is Becky. I live with anxiety and depression and was referred to employment support by my Phycological Wellbeing Practitioner in July 2022, after I had lost 2 jobs in the previous 6 months due to non-attendance.

I am a hair stylist and had found a vacancy I wanted to apply for, but felt like there was no point in applying for another role as I was sure the same thing will happen again. I met with Rob, my employment support advisor, and we talked about disclosure, employment rights and work-place adjustments surrounding mental health. We edited my CV and cover letter and then applied.

2 days later, I got a call inviting me to interview. Rob and I agreed that the best way forward was to address the reasons why I had lost my last two jobs and disclose I had a diagnosis. We had a mock interview, and the feedback helped to boost my confidence in my ability to do the job, but I still felt awkward when talking about why I had left my last job.

Talking it over with Rob, I decided the best way to go was to say I had learnt from the experience and this time around I had support in place, discuss flexible working and ask the employer how we could work together to promote a positive and supportive work environment.

I was nervous at the interview, but remembered what went well in my mock and was successful in getting the job! I was very happy at the inclusive nature of the business and the procedures in place for supporting staff.

I have planned for moving forward, including a wellness action plan and stress management plan and agreed to a weekly check in for the first month with Rob. I feel settled in my job - talking about my health from the beginning removed a lot of the anxieties about being in a new place with new people - and feel lucky my new employer was so open and supportive.”