Sarah's Story

Sarah’s son Kieran, a former Royal Marine, sustained a severe brain injury in 2021. Following his medical discharge, he moved in with Sarah at her home in Derbyshire, where he now requires 24-hour care. While Sarah works, carers support Kieran, but they leave as soon as she returns, making it challenging for her to manage after a full day’s work.

After 23 years as a Pool Manager and Swim Teacher at a school for children with severe learning disabilities, Sarah realised she was ready for a new direction. She reached out to the Poppy Factory’s Families Employment Specialists for support. This team helps individuals overcome employment barriers to find roles suited to their unique circumstances and aspirations.

Working together, they helped Sarah address her concerns about finding a job with regular, flexible daytime hours. They refined her CV to highlight her skills with children and families and supported her search for in-person or hybrid roles, allowing her time to step away from caregiving and regain her independence.

With interview training, Sarah excelled and secured a role as a GP Link Worker for children and young people in social prescribing. She loves her new role and is delighted she made the change.

Discover Sarah’s full story here: https://www.poppyfactory.org/sarah-changes-career/