Real life stories
North Eastern Duncan carves out a career in Liverpool
When 27 year old Duncan Ewart, who lives in Tuebrook, Liverpool, found that he faced redundancy from his job as an administrative assistant, he knew instinctively he had to get the right support to give him the best chance of keeping his job or finding new work opportunities.
Following a recommendation from Jobcentre Plus, Duncan accessed information and careers advice in Liverpool, where he has lived for two and a half years, on applying for roles and improving interview techniques. And following two face-to-face appointments, which saw music loving Duncan, who is originally from County Durham in the North East, undertake a mock interview, a competency based application procedure and complete two skills action plans, Duncan was fully armed with the skills to take him through a successful interview. And the good news is that this has since seen him secure employment as an Administration Assistant for GMCP – an adult careers advice service - in Bootle.
Duncan said:
“The job market is difficult for lots of people and when I was told my position was being made redundant I knew I had to go out and get the skills I’d need to ensure I could sell myself to a prospective employer. Thankfully, following two meetings with the adviser, I felt more confident in my skills and ability and I have since secured employment.”
Duncan, who studied A Levels at college in the North East before moving to Derby University to study English and Creative Writing, would ultimately like to work his way into a team leader or management position in Management Information or IT. A keen Newcastle United supporter, Duncan plays guitar, drums and sings in his spare time. He has since recommended the importance of seeking careers advice to several friends who have been struggling to find employment or who are unhappy in their current job.
He continued:
“The people that I met made me feel comfortable, capable and confident. I believe that if I hadn’t sought advice I would now be unemployed. I would really recommend good careers and skills advice to everyone.”
Traci Rabaca, Duncan’s adviser, said:
“Duncan is just one example of the many people who seek advice to help them get on in life – be it through instilling confidence in abilities, offering advice and direction or helping to up-skill.”
To find out more about how the National Careers Service can help you, visit nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk or call 0800 100 900.
Contacting the National Careers Service
Friendly and practical advice helping you take the next step...
Are you the next success story?
We have a number of ways for you to get in touch and we would love to hear about how things are going and what you have been able to achieve! 
