Mick’s story

Previous to starting the Apex Scotland Build It Course, I worked in Social Housing (Housing Associations) for 30 years. I went through quite a difficult relationship breakdown, and it affected every part of my life. We ended up reconciling a few times but both of us began to use alcohol more frequently. The relationship finally broke down completely and it was quite acrimonious, and I ended up with a criminal conviction. My work life was severely affected, and I ended up leaving my employment. My life was in a mess, and I thought I would never work again.

I voluntarily attended alcohol counselling and managed to get myself back to a good place.

I registered with some employment support agencies, Elevate & Choiceworks, the latter recommended me to Apex Scotland where I Started the Build It Course.

The course group was so diverse in respect of ages, ethnicities, and cultures. We very quickly formed a tight-knit, friendly and supportive group which remained through the whole course. Along with the advice, support, and guidance from the Apex Scotland Team (Louise, Denise & Katy) and our group teamwork we assisted, encouraged and carried each other through the course.

Every one of us passed all the course qualifications, and it was such a great feeling for us all knowing that as well as the fantastic guidance we were getting, that we all stuck together as a group and did it. I personally gained qualifications in First Aid, Health & Safety, Manual Handling, C.S.C.S. Labourer’s Card, and a PASMA qualification. I have taken so much knowledge and friendship from this course that will prove to be invaluable. I also gained an updated professional C.V. and valuable employability skills. The site visits we went on to Sunbelt & H.M.P. Glasgow were great. They were extremely professional, informative and rewarding. The Apex Scotland team also assisted me with Disclosure and Subject Access Request issues that were a major concern to me. They also helped me draft a cover letter regarding my convictions.

I am as yet not in employment, as I am waiting to do a Forklift Handler course via Jobs & Business Glasgow, who we engaged with via the Apex Scotland course, but I am very confident that on completion of the forklift course I will be in a great position to gain employment.

I asked Louise if I could come in and have a chat with the next course. Louise kindly allowed this and thought it would be good. Today I did this and spoke to the group, explaining my journey, and how the course helped me. I encouraged all the guys to adopt the same attitude and principles of my own group, and they will do well. I really enjoyed the opportunity to talk to the new group, as I wanted to give something back to this wonderful, important & worthwhile course.

This course has been a life saver for me, and I cannot praise the Apex Scotland & Choiceworks Teams enough. It has really turned my life around. I have been praising it and promoting it to everyone who will listen to me.

All the very best team and thank you all so much for everything.