Planning Inspectorate Newsletter - Issue 5
Determination pays off for Zelah
Zelah Vincent is celebrating nearly 18 months in employment thanks to her determination to conquer her physical disabilities and help she received from Jobcentre Plus. Zelah has coped with cerebral palsy and successfully overcome the barriers to work to get a job at the Planning Inspectorate.
Zelah, who also has sight problems and uses a wheelchair, wanted to get employment and gain her independence. Jobcentre Plus found her training in business administration, then helped her search for work.
After more than twenty unsuccessful interviews, Zelah refused to give up and she was delighted when she heard she had got a job with the Planning Inspectorate. Zelah works in administration. She receives planning appeals, checks them, and later ensures people who have asked to be notified of the decision receive a copy.
She said: “I felt nervous and excited when I started as this was my first job. But I soon got the hang of things - I really enjoy helping customers.”
Jobcentre Plus supported Zelah when she started and arranged for a job coach to help her settle in.
Julia Burden, at Jobcentre Plus said: “Zelah succeeded through persistence and accepting the support Jobcentre Plus offered her. She has a can-do attitude, and is an exceptional candidate.”
The Planning Inspectorate also made adaptations to the workplace such as installing software to enable Zelah to use the computer easily.
Steve Emler, her boss at the Planning Inspectorate said: “Zelah works really hard and is a popular member of our team. Her success is largely due to her own dedication and initiative as well as the support she gets from her colleagues here and the Jobcentre Plus Workstep programme. ”
Zelah’s advice for others looking for work is: “When things don’t work out at first, persevere. I know from my own experience that you’ll succeed if you are determined.”
"Zelah pictured with Anne McGuire, Minister for Disabled People."
