Dineo’s story: finding her way back to work, confidence and community

When Dineo first walked into JobsPlus, she was having one of those days where everything felt heavy.

She had recently lost her role with NHS Professionals and had been trying to challenge the decision. After seeking advice elsewhere, she noticed the JobsPlus banner and decided to come in and ask a simple question:

“Do you help people find jobs?”

That small step became the start of something much bigger.

Dineo had worked in care before, and it was clear from the beginning that supporting people mattered deeply to her. Care work was not just a job she could do, it was work that gave her purpose. But after losing her role, her confidence had taken a knock. She was worried about what had happened, how future employers might see it, and how quickly she could get back into work.

From her first conversation with Jo, Dineo was listened to properly. She had space to explain what had happened, talk through the frustration she was carrying, and begin to look at what could come next. Together, they went through her paperwork, talked honestly about the situation, and started focusing on the things Dineo could move forward with.

That meant refreshing her CV, applying for roles, building her confidence back up, preparing for interviews and making sure her training was up to date. Dineo committed to the process fully. Even when things felt uncertain, she kept showing up.

Alongside the practical job support, Dineo also became part of the wider JobsPlus community. She came along to community events, accessed the food van, attended wellbeing sessions and started to reconnect with people. Slowly, the weight she had been carrying began to lift.

There were real moments of joy along the way too. Dineo joined the garden party, danced, met others and began smiling again. She also took steps to look after her health, including speaking to her GP about concerns with her feet and legs.

As interviews started to come through, Jo helped Dineo prepare for each one. JobsPlus also supported her with a £100 voucher for interview and work clothes, along with a work bag and starter pack, helping her feel ready and prepared for her next opportunity.

Then came the moment Dineo had been working towards.

She was offered a role back in care, doing the work she says “fills her soul”.

For Dineo, getting back into work has brought more than income. It has brought confidence, stability and hope for the future. She is back in a role where she can use her experience, care for others and feel proud of what she has achieved.

Reflecting on her journey, Dineo said:

“From that point on, I never felt alone. Jo took the time to understand my circumstances, reviewed all the paperwork relating to my dismissal, and never stopped encouraging me.”

She added:

“Don’t give up, even when it feels like everything is against you. Losing a job can knock your confidence, but there are people who genuinely care and want to help. You don’t have to face it alone.”

Dineo is now looking ahead with renewed confidence. She has returned to the kind of work that means something to her, and she knows the JobsPlus team will continue to be there in the background as she settles in.

Her story is a reminder that sometimes one small step through the door can open up a whole new chapter.

If you live in Toxteth, Liverpool and are looking for work, please pop by 3 Kelvin Grove L8 3UE.