Rowan Court Helping People Back to Work
A former soldier, who was medically discharged when harrowing tours of Iraq left her with severe post-traumatic stress disorder, is finally getting her life back together thanks to Remploy and Rowan Court Care Home.
“Whilst my training was rigorous, nothing could prepare me for the things I saw,” said Sam. “I joined up at the age of 18, and really enjoyed my time based in Germany, but the memories of what happened after that will remain with me for the rest of my life.”
After leaving the forces, Sam found it difficult to adjust to civilian life. She experienced constant flashbacks, anxiety and depression which led to a period of homelessness. She sought support from the veterans’ mental health charity Combat Stress, and eventually found a home with the help of a local housing association. Then, having regained some of her health, the next step was to find a job.
“That’s when I turned to Remploy, hoping they would understand the situation I was in,” said Sam. “It was a huge comfort to know my employment advisor at Remploy could relate to the challenges I faced. Nevertheless, the prospect of having a job – my first in civilian life – was daunting.”
Remploy provides employment support for people with disabilities and health conditions, and works with employers throughout the UK to help them fill their vacancies with job-ready candidates.
Samantha Fullylove, aged 30, from Newcastle under Lyme, had little choice but to leave the job she had always wanted to do but which, after two tours in the Middle East left her with experiences she found impossible to forget.
“By our very nature, we’re a caring company, and so extending this to members of staff is part of our business model,” said her manager Rachel Simpson. “During Sam’s trial it was clear that, with the right help, she would be an ideal employee – and Sam’s proving to be just that.”Sam said: ““As a care assistant, my job is to look after our residents, ensuring they continue to enjoy life here at Rowan Court, and that they are afforded the dignity of individual care. I am learning all the time from those I work alongside, and having a job that I enjoy is helping me with my continued recovery. So many people have supported me, and my aim is to repay them all by being the very best I can.”
