Linsey hadn’t worked since she left a retail job at 19 years old, and was 25 when she joined the Learning Hub at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, as a single mother.

The Learning Hub assists unemployed people within the community back into work, providing pre-employment training, advice and guidance.

Linsey had no confidence and little idea what she wanted to do. The Learning Hub gave her opportunities, showed her what was available and potential careers. She was offered a work placement course called Activate, a five-week pre-employment programme comprising classroom sessions and work experience. After completion Linsey applied for an apprenticeship within the Trust, with an opportunity to gain a business administration NVQ 2. Her application was successful.

Linsey completed her apprenticeship with Ambulatory Care and was offered a post as an admin assistant. Later, she moved to a day-case ward and decided to progress further as a support secretary, working with consultants and patients. She undertook AMSPAR, a level 3 admin qualification at evening school. Linsey qualified as a medical secretary and worked at this until her manager suggested she studied for a foundation degree in business management. Having completed this Linsey is now a team leader and office manager of medical secretaries.

Linsey said: “I owe the Hub a lot, for believing in me when no one else did. The Journey to your career path isn’t an easy one but if you are lucky enough to have a second chance like I did or be given an opportunity… take it, you never know where it will take you.”