Rehana was referred to Grow by her DWP Work Coach, she was looking for more than just help finding a job. She wanted to build her confidence, become more independent and improve her communication skills so that she could feel more comfortable navigating everyday life and be able to communicate openly with others.
Rehana, who is in her 50s, had never worked in the UK and had spent many years as a housewife. With limited work experience and difficulties with English, reading, writing and digital skills, finding suitable employment felt like a significant challenge. She often needed someone to accompany her when going to unfamiliar places because she lacked the confidence to go alone. She also has some minor health issues, meaning that any future employment would need to be carefully matched to her needs and the right working environment.
One of Rehana’s biggest barriers has been communicating confidently in English. She explained that she feels much more comfortable speaking Punjabi, particularly when she needs to explain something, ask for help or understand important information. At times, this has made it difficult for her to express herself freely and has affected her confidence when meeting new people or exploring opportunities.
She attended a Grow wellbeing session led by Grow Coach, Saeema. It was her first in-person session with Grow, and understandably, she was unsure about what to expect. Initially, she worried that her communication difficulties might prevent her from taking part in the same way as other participants. However, the experience turned out to be a very positive one.
Rehana shared:
“This was my first time attending a Grow session in person, and I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was told that I didn’t need to speak or take part if I didn’t feel comfortable. I could just sit, listen and watch what was happening. This made me feel much more relaxed because I didn’t have to worry about speaking English or feeling embarrassed if I didn’t understand something.
Saeema was very supportive throughout the session. She kept checking that I was okay and explained things to me in Punjabi so that I could understand what was happening. She took the time to sit with me and explain why Grow runs these sessions and how they can help women like me. She explained everything slowly and clearly and made sure I understood. Even though I was mainly listening and watching, I really enjoyed the session. I felt comfortable, welcomed and like I belonged. Having Saeema there to explain things to me in Punjabi made a big difference. I felt understood and supported, and it gave me the confidence to want to come back and attend more in-person sessions.”
Recognising that improving her English would be an important step, Grow has also referred Rehana to in-person, pre-entry ESOL classes in Hayes run by WEA. This has been an important milestone for her. For someone who has faced difficulties with communication for many years, attending classes and working on her English is helping her take steps towards feeling more confident in everyday situations.
For Rehana, this is not simply about learning English. It is about being able to speak to people more confidently, understand information for herself, express what she needs and gradually become less reliant on others.
The support she has received from Grow has helped create a safe and welcoming environment where she feels comfortable talking about her challenges, asking for help and sharing her aspirations. Having staff who understand her language and culture has helped her feel listened to and valued.
There are still barriers for Rehana to overcome, but she is making progress at her own pace. Her next goal is to continue developing her English, while also improving her reading and writing skills. As her confidence grows, she hopes to become more independent and explore employment opportunities that are suitable.
Rehana’s journey is a reminder that progress starts with simply feeling welcomed, understood and supported enough to take the next step. Through personalised support, Grow is helping Rehana build her confidence, develop new skills and move towards greater independence. Her journey is still ongoing, but every step she takes is bringing her closer to the future she wants for herself.