Amanda’s story

Amanda was struggling with anxiety and depression, as well as social isolation as a result of paranoia caused by her cannabis use. She was living in Derventio supported housing, but was not paying her domestic charge. This was creating a new debt and Amanda had to rely on food banks to last the month.

Amanda lacked confidence in her own abilities and didn’t feel that she would be capable of achieving anything. She took part in a Multiply budgeting session and asked if she could be involved in the pop-up shop.

The more numeracy practice she did, the more Amanda gained in confidence and started taking about getting back into work. During a one-to-one session, staff worked with Amanda to work out what her take home pay could be and how her benefits might be affected by working. We also helped her to create a curriculum vitae. Amanda started applying for roles in kitchens as she really enjoys cooking.

She has now secured a job at a local pub restaurant as a part-time kitchen assistant. Amanda says the numeracy skills she has been practicing will stand her in good stead in her new role.