Safina gets the gist

Safina Bibi outside the Leighton House Retirement Home in Rochdale

Safina Bibi, from Rochdale, got the gist of work experience after she achieved her ‘Get the Gist’ qualification with Training @ Hopwood.

In 2007 Safina achieved a BA in Criminology and Sociology but put her career on hold whilst caring for her young family. Now, aged 33, Safina is keen to forge a career in social work but had some obstacles in her way – she lacked motivation, the knowledge of how to find a job and she had never had any work experience. 

Safina did a work placement at Leighton House Retirement Home in Rochdale once she had completed ‘Get the Gist’. She was a little afraid in the beginning and was unsure as to what to expect but as soon as Safina got into a routine, attending a work placement one day each week for four weeks, she felt more comfortable in the workplace and now has an insight into a real work environment. And she’s thrilled that the manager has agreed for her to continue on a voluntary basis.

Safina commented: “The staff at Leighton House are really friendly and supportive. I have been involved in setting tables, assisting with feeding the residents, making drinks and helping with activities. I am hoping to embark upon a career in Social Work and am keen to learn new skills and get the right qualifications. This opportunity has increased my confidence and it’s really beneficial as work experience is what employers look for when recruiting new staff. I have made new friends and really enjoyed spending time with the residents and chatting with them.”

Maggie Welsby, Manager at Leighton House Residential Retirement Home said: “It is important to support our local community and here at Leighton House we provide opportunities for people to get work experience. It is a great way for people to shine in the workplace; I will always consider good volunteers when I am recruiting new staff.”

‘Get the Gist’, is a two week pre-employment programme which provides an initial introduction to work skills. ‘Get the Gist’ is a BTEC Edexcel Level 1 Work Skills qualification that encourages people to explore their strengths and weaknesses and focus on future career prospects. It aims to increase confidence and self-esteem and assist with establishing short and medium term goals to enhance job prospects.