Patrick Merrigan

Why did you come to Môn CF?

I had been looking for work in the area for a few months and wasn’t having any luck! I felt like I was hitting a lot of dead ends looking for a new job and when applying I wasn’t having much luck. I was a little nervous at first coming into Mon CF as I wasn’t sure what to expect, but once I was in the ball was rolling. My mentor supported me with many things in addition to employment support which has been a huge help! I wasn’t aware of some of the opportunities out there for me with other organisations – but my mentor assisted me in connecting with other support too! There are many aspects of life that are affected when your unemployed for a while, so being pointed in the right direction really benefited me. My mentor kept me updated with any vacancies I was interested in and helped me prepare for interviews.

Did you do any training?

Yes, I completed my Level 3 Emergency First Aid at Work, Level 2 Mental Health First Aid, and Level 3 Safeguarding Children, Young People and Vulnerable Adults, which has been very useful for the type of career I was working towards. The courses helped boost my CV and job applications because they were so relevant to the work I wanted. I really learned a lot from attending, everyone was in the same boat on the course; it didn’t matter your age or ability because the where was extra support if anyone needed it!

Did you do any volunteering or work experience?

Yes, my mentor arranged for me to get a DBS check so that I could start working in a local Youth Pod. I was doing that for a few weeks (before COVID 19), it’s really rewarding and has put something current and up to date on my CV in the field I want to work in.

What are you doing now?

Alongside my volunteering, I gained employment as a Youth Worker for the Isle of Anglesey County Council. My mentor made me aware of the vacancy and helped me prepare for my interview.  I am really enjoying my job! Since the current situation with COVID 19 my mentor has been calling me, checking on my well being and still helping me look for both voluntary and paid work. We have also been looking at ways I can learn and upskill online!!

What do you think is the best thing about Môn CF?

The best thing about Môn CF was not feeling pressured into accepting just any job that was available. They helped me find the kind of work I actually wanted to do, even in these unprecedented times the team are still there for me!