Clare Kempster says her ‘life has turned around’ since she responded to a message from Riverside inviting her to an employment and training open day for care sector professionals.

The 38 year-old Riverside tenant and mother of two from Hunts Cross, had enjoyed a career as a classroom assistant. She gave up work to become a full-time carer for her father, who was living with dementia. Following his death, Clare suffered with depression and anxiety, which in turn led to her falling into serious rent arrears, facing the prospect of eviction.

Clare said: “Although I was feeling low, when I found out about the open day I thought I would go along and see what it was all about. Julie, from the employment and training team was there and she encouraged me to take up the ten-week course. Her support really helped me to get back on my feet.”

Julie helped Clare prepare for an interview as a personal care assistant with Victoria Care, and she arranged funding to pay for her Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, required for the post.

Julie said: “When I first met Clare she really was at rock bottom, but wanted to return to work to help break the cycle of depression she’d suffered after her father died. She’s built on her wealth of family caring experience and has now secured a full-time job looking after vulnerable adults.”

Clare started her job in September last year, has got on top of her rent arrears and has a new lease of life.

“Now I’ve a real purpose in life. The continued support from Julie has boosted my confidence and made me realise that I have so much to offer. I love my job. It’s a huge boost when I hear that clients have asked for me specifically to look after them. I never thought I would ever feel this positive.”