Return To Work Case Study: Angela Woodward

Name: Angela Woodward
Location: Kirkby Stephen, Eden

Previous work and experience: Angela had worked in a school kitchen as a midday assistant in the past but had been out of work and claiming benefits in recent years.

Disability or incapacity: Angela has had to deal with the symptoms of cerebral palsy (CP) from birth and particularly suffers with joint pain in the winter months. She realised that full-time working would probably be too tiring for her but was keen to find a part-time role.

“My parents were always keen for me to cope with my disability and to get on with life. I also want to be a good example to my son and daughter who are now teenagers and looking at the world of work for themselves.”

Benefits of the CREA Return to Work scheme: Angela’s contact at Job Centre+ in Penrith suggested that the Return to Work scheme might help her, not only to find suitable employment but also to build up her confidence.

“I had been on benefits and not working for a while but really wanted to get out of the house and find a job. Angela at Return to Work didn’t talk down to me but became a really good friend with plenty of support and encouragement. It was useful to meet regularly and she could be flexible on where and when which made things much easier for me.”

Current status: Angela found part-time work in a local supermarket and she has been working there since November 2008. She still claims some benefits including motability, which enables her to drive to and from work whatever her shift patterns.

“I enjoy working as part of a team and the job has worked out well. I am getting to know regular customers as well as colleagues and the time out of the house is boosting my confidence and giving me a perspective on other problems and challenges. It is good to know that Angela is still available for advice on tax credits and other aspects of making part-time working work for me.”

Future plans and hopes: The nature of Angela’s job and the hours make it ideal for someone in her situation. She has access to a car so the changing shifts are manageable and she hopes to continue with her employer for the foreseeable future.

“Angela has a huge amount of energy and enthusiasm and it was no surprise when she found herself the job and settled into it really quickly. She is a good example of how someone with a disability can fit into a working team and contribute to a business while also boosting confidence and becoming more independent.”
Angela Staples, Cumbria Rural Enterprise Agency


Contact Cumbria Rural Enterprise Agency (CREA) Kendal office on 015397 26624 for further information on the Return to Work scheme and also for advice on business start up courses.