Julie first connected with our service through her husband, Paul, who had been attending one of our sessions. After over 35 years in retail roles, she found herself looking for work in an unfamiliar digital world. She joined our Digital Job Club at Starting Point in March. These sessions at our Learning Hub in Woodley have been funded by CDL Software.

Julie had built a successful career as a store manager in a charity shop. Her experience included visual merchandising, stock control, team leadership, and day-to-day retail operations. 
She was now seeking a part-time role that would allow her to balance employment with caring responsibilities. 

Although highly experienced, Julie faced a significant challenge. The last time she had looked for work was over 15 years ago, when job searching was largely paper-based and conducted in person. Since then, recruitment processes have shifted almost entirely online. 

Julie did not have access to the essential tools needed to engage with the modern job market. She had: 

• No smartphone or digital device 
• No internet access at home 
• No email address 

Despite her strong professional background, these barriers placed her at a significant disadvantage. Without access to devices, connectivity, or digital skills, even searching for available roles was not possible. 

Julie’s situation reflects a wider issue within many communities: digital exclusion continues to prevent individuals from accessing employment opportunities. 

Working together, we took a practical and supportive approach to help Julie overcome these barriers. 

We were able to gift Julie a smartphone and provide her with data from the National Databank. This enabled her to take her first steps into the digital job market. We supported her to: 

• Set up her own email account 
• Register on job platforms such as Indeed and Totaljobs 
• Learn how to search for roles using keywords and filters 
• Understand how to complete and submit online applications 

At the same time, we worked with Julie to develop a professional CV that clearly demonstrated her extensive experience and transferable skills in a format suited to modern recruitment processes. 

Julie was also able to access a laptop through another support organisation. During our sessions, she developed her confidence in using this device, alongside learning how to navigate her smartphone. 

With no fixed internet connection at home, we showed Julie how to use her smartphone as a hotspot. This allowed her to work independently, search for vacancies, and complete applications from home. 

While Julie had some experience using computers during her retail career, smartphones and online job platforms were entirely new to her. 

Developing skills such as: 

• Navigating apps and touchscreens 
• Managing online accounts 
• Completing digital forms 
• Uploading documents 

required both time and encouragement. 

Through continued support, Julie’s confidence grew steadily. Reflecting on her experience, Julie shared:

 “I wouldn’t have got the job had I not started here – I’ve recommended you to other people who are in the same position I was in. The kind, friendly support from everyone will help us get into the 21st century!” 

With access to the right tools and guidance, she was able to adapt and engage with digital systems that had initially felt unfamiliar. 

Given her strong retail background, it was encouraging, but not surprising, that Julie began securing interviews soon after starting her job search. 

We are pleased to share that Julie has now secured a part-time role as a retail assistant within a charity shop. The role offers the flexibility she needs and allows her to continue supporting her family while returning to work.  She will be starting her new position shortly. 

Why This Work Matters 

Julie’s experience highlights an important reality: 
the shift to digital has transformed access to employment, but not everyone has been able to keep pace. 

Many individuals within our communities face similar challenges, including: 

• Limited access to devices and connectivity 
• Low digital confidence or skills 
• A lack of familiarity with online systems 

Without targeted support, these barriers can prevent people from even entering the job market—regardless of their experience or ability. 

Julie’s journey demonstrates what can be achieved when practical support is provided. Access to a device, reliable connectivity, and tailored guidance can make a significant difference in helping individuals reconnect with employment opportunities. 

By continuing to address digital exclusion within our communities, we can ensure that more people are able to participate fully in today’s workforce and are not left behind as processes continue to evolve. 

Our weekly job clubs run on Tuesdays 10-11.30am at Starting Point’s Hub in Woodley or 1-2pm at Offerton Library.