Working Links in Plymouth helps Tyra back on the payroll after 20 years

By PRSD, on Thursday, January 27, 2011

Tyra Collins: back on the payroll after 20 years and able to demonstrate the skills she developed as a mum and carer

Cooking enthusiast Tyra Collins is back on the payroll for the first time in 20 years after landing her dream job.

Single parent Tyra, of North Prospect, Plymouth, had previously studied a host of construction-based courses at college, but then became a carer for her mother until a few months ago when she passed away.

It was then when Tyra was referred to Working Links in the city and enrolled on their course Launch Pad to boost her confidence, self esteem and look at a possible career direction.

She said: “I felt a bit scared at first as you don’t know who is going to be on the course and if you’ll get along. However, once I arrived I felt quite relaxed and have made some great friends who I now spend time with.”

While on the course, Tyra baked fairy cakes for the group and showed everyone her passion for cooking. And it wasn’t long before Tyra was applying for catering jobs.

She added: “I quickly realised the benefits of working clearly outweighed the negatives. In my case, there was absolutely no reason that I shouldn’t try and find work.

“I had always liked baking so it was an easy decision to make in terms of career direction.”

Within two weeks of joining Working Links’ back to work scheme, Tyra had gained an interview at Durnsford Lodge residential home as a traditional cook. Despite being very nervous at her first interview in 20 years, Tyra wowed the panel with homemade cakes, pies and patties and was given the job on the spot.

Julia Ayrton, Durnsford Lodge’s acting manager, said: “Tyra joined our team in November and has picked up the essential skills required in catering in our home. Through looking after and catering for her mother and children, she has the knowledge and practical skills required in preparing and delivering of well balanced nutritional and home cooked meals.

“Tyra has gained confidence in her cooking ability which grows on a daily basis and this is evident through the products that she produces.”

Tyra added: “I’m really enjoying my new job. It’s great to be doing something you enjoy.”It’s such a buzz to know that I am getting up in the morning to go to work.

“My children and I are so much better off, my kids have become so much more helpful and our quality of life is so much better. Christmas was a lot easier this year. Going on the Launch Pad course at Working Links was the best thing I ever did.”

Working Links tutor Sarah Harry said: “Despite cooking for her family for the past 20 years, Tyra had no references or employment experience so to bake homemade cakes and pastries to take to the interview was a really unique way of getting noticed and remembered. The proof really was in the pudding.”

To find out more about how Working Links helps communities, call 0800 917 9262 or visit the Working Links website