Our employment support services open the door for social housing resident, Kaba

Kaba headshot Kaba in an office using a laptop

Meet Kaba, a bright and motivated individual, with several qualifications under his belt, who previously won an award for the most outstanding student when studying a BTEC in Business at Havering College.

Originally from Liberia, Kaba moved to Barking when he was 17, for a new life and to live closer to family members.

After three years, he moved to one of our homes in Dagenham and took advantage of our employment services.

We offer a free service to our residents and those living in the community, who are looking for work or looking to return to work, offering tailored support to meet their goals.

Kaba’s employment adviser, Shehla, helped him update his CV and assisted him with his job search.

“Employment support helped me find a path. Shehla was there for me ever since I met her. Whenever I need advice, I’d call her, and she’d say things that put my mind at ease”, Kaba said. 

Kaba gained experience at large corporations, including HSBC, Three mobile, and Trowers & Hamlins.

“All the placements gave me meaningful work experience with clear duties, responsibilities, and goals”, Kaba said.

“My first placement at HSBC boosted my confidence and improved my communication skills. I built on this experience at Three and was later offered a permanent paid role at my local branch and the flagship store on Oxford Street”, Kaba said.

“It was a busy environment, but my sales numbers were strong. Dealing with customers every day helped me become comfortable talking to people face to face”, Kaba continued.

Kaba’s most recent placement was at Trower's & Hamlins in July of this year.

Our employment support programme gives residents from diverse and underrepresented socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds the chance to complete two weeks of work experience at the top international law firm.

Not only does it give residents on-the-job experience, but they also received £100 of clothing vouchers, lunch and travel allowances, and an additional £50 voucher upon completion.

Successful candidates are chosen via an interview on the day, at the firm’s London office.

“The hiring process was a good experience. It was my first time taking part in an interview with two people, and it made me much more aware of my body language.”

During Kaba’s placement, he got to grips with the day-to-day ad hoc requests from a team of solicitors. The difference in the work environment from the office to the shop floor, and interaction with colleagues versus customers, helped Kaba adapt to new communication styles.

“I had to tailor my communication language now that I was working with colleagues rather than customers”, Kaba said.

Kaba is now focusing on launching a career in the media. He is working towards a BTEC in Creative Media Skills and is looking for a part-time role to supplement his studies. Kaba remains in close contact with Shehla and is grateful for the support he received through our employment support service.