Aberystwyth resident Chris Tuner is autistic and struggles with low confidence which limits his social and professional opportunities.

With his own determination, together with help and support from RAY Ceredigion and Workways+, Chris’ life has taken a positive turn and he’s now seeking employment in IT and warehousing.

Life was difficult for Chris, now 25.

At his lowest point he found it very difficult to leave his home, could not enter shops or use public transport.

Social Services referred Chris to Workways+, a service dedicated to helping people improve their lives through volunteering, training, work experience and employment.

The Ceredigion Workways+ team assigned Chris a dedicated mentor, Carly Evans, to work with him on a one-to-one basis. A focus on confidence-building and volunteering opportunities was the agreed course of action. Carly contacted RAY Ceredigion, a charity dedicated to helping young adults with disabilities aged 17 to 30.

They were able to offer Chris a place on their 10-week ‘Dyma Ni’ programme, funded by Cynnal y Cardi. Participants of the programme take part in a variety of projects including, growing organic fruit and vegetables, carpentry and cooking. Dyma Ni helps people work on practical activities both individually and in groups with the aim of developing skills and building confidence.

Completing the 10-week programme, Chris has thrived and his confidence has grown. He was able to commute via public transport to attend Dyma Ni, which was a major development and one that will help him secure full-time employment.

Workways+ is now helping Chris search for jobs. They are supporting Chris with identifying job opportunities, conducting mock interviews, developing his CV and helping him to apply for jobs.

For information on how the Ceredigion Workways + team can help you, please call 01545 574193 or visit www.workways.wales

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