Two mothers from the Midlands have spoken candidly about the profound loneliness experienced during periods of unemployment, but now see a clear path forward after a transformative training scheme.
From Isolation to Opportunity
Linda Edwards, 43, and Jodie Price, 36, detailed their daily struggles at an event in Derby, where East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward launched a major initiative aimed at helping 60,000 people into work. Both women have recently completed a Government-funded Sector-based Work Academy Programme (SWAP) arranged by Jobcentre Plus and overseen by East Midlands Railway (EMR).
Ms Price had been out of work for five years, ready to return since her youngest child started nursery. She described the emotional toll of joblessness. "It's been a lonely time, it doesn't feel great," she said. "You do get cut off because you are at home. You do start questioning yourself – is it because of my age or whatever? My confidence was lacking."
Linda Edwards faced similar challenges after being unemployed for just over a year following work in social care. "Being unemployed can be difficult and challenging," she explained. "I wasn't getting any replies back which is hard."
The SWAP Programme: A Pathway Back to Work
The three-week SWAP course is designed for benefit claimants aged 16 and over, providing skills training and hands-on experience to boost employability. The duo undertook unpaid customer service roles at both Derby Midland Station and Nottingham Railway Station, gaining practical insights into the rail industry.
The programme has yielded significant results. Chris Buckley from East Midlands Railway confirmed its success, noting the strong partnership with Derby College which delivers the training. "Seven out of 15 people in the cohort are now in our talent pool," he stated. "As soon as a job comes up we'll be picking up the phone and offering it to them."
For Linda and Jodie, this means they are now just a phone call away from securing a position with EMR without the need for a further interview.
A Renewed Sense of Confidence and Purpose
Both women emphasised how the scheme rebuilt their self-belief and provided a crucial stepping stone. "The course has helped me become a more mature person," said Linda Edwards. "After applying and applying for jobs it was quite difficult to get into something. But this was perfect." She added that she is prepared to wait for a call from EMR, confident a vacancy will arise soon.
Jodie Price shared her renewed optimism, stating the opportunity came at the perfect time. "I want to see people and find myself again," she said. "We are both high on life right now."
The initiative, highlighted by Mayor Ward's wider employment plan, demonstrates a practical model for tackling long-term unemployment. By combining sector-specific training with real workplace experience, it offers a tangible route from isolation to integration for those seeking to re-enter the workforce.
