Case study: Alex’s story

Alex Dean is celebrating his Kickstart journey after joining Weightlifter Bodies Ltd in February 2022.

Alex is a recent computer science graduate with a 2:1 honour degree from the University of Lincoln. He was finding it difficult to secure a job which would utilise his skills. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) referred him to Ongo, where he secured a placement with Weightlifter Bodies Ltd, a truck body building company in Scunthorpe as a production control assistant.

Nigel Butler, Managing Director at Weightlifters said “Within a few minutes of meeting Alex I knew he would be a good candidate for the position. There was something about him and he presented himself extremely well. In this role you meet and greet new and existing clients and it requires a certain amount of gravitas which Alex certainly had.

“He quickly learned new tasks and then moved onto the engineering side of the business, where he had to work closely with lots of different areas and departments.

“We were pleased to offer him a full-time position and can’t wait to continue working with him.”

Clare Sparrow, his Kickstart Tutor Mentor, said: “Alex has undertaken a training programme to help him to develop his confidence, skills and experience. He has been keen to learn, is reliable and it’s been a pleasure working with him through his journey”.

During placements all candidates have access to an Ongo Tutor Mentor, who supports them every step of the way with training and development. They also support the business with next steps at the end of the placement.

Alex has now been taken on as a permanent member of staff with Weightlifters, showing the power of the Kickstart scheme, and how it really helps individuals find the right job for them.

Visit the free employment support page on our website to find out what support and opportunities are available to help you with your employment, skills and training needs.