You may have read about Riverside’s plans to make more than 1000 homes more energy efficient.

But did you know it’s also providing work opportunities for customers?

After meeting the team at our delivery partner, Equans, and striking up a relationship with them while her home was upgraded, Carlisle customer Sarah Spittle was offered some work experience with one of Riverside’s major suppliers.

Sarah says, “I took an interest in the work being carried out around our estate, which led the site manager to comment, ‘Hey, you should work in customer services’.”

During a week-long siteshadowing experience, Sarah, who had felt uncertain about her abilities, quickly regained her confidence.

It was the first time in a while she had a taste of the workplace after a significant time off.

“It was a rewarding and affirming week that reignited my passion for customer-focused roles and has given me the confidence to look for future work.”

The role required quick thinking and flexibility as priorities shifted. People-orientated, it brought back the social aspect of work that Sarah had been missing.

Working alongside Liaison Officer Luke Rodrigues, Sarah spent time handling customer queries and helping to build strong relationships with clients.

By engaging with both customers and the team, she realised that her communication and problem-solving skills were still very much intact.

“Speaking with the clients and going to their homes with Luke was a pleasure,” Sarah added. “Also working with such a welcoming and lovely site team. As a customer who lives in a Riverside property, the experience truly opened my eyes. I enjoyed every second and would definitely do it again!”

That opportunity appears to be on its way. While Sarah has regained the confidence to apply for other jobs, Equans has provisionally offered her a liaison officer role beginning early next year.