Teresa's story: A New Beginning

Teresa had always been a hard worker. She had been working since the age of seven. By the time Teresa was expecting her first child, she had a thriving career in recruitment, with a great salary and the freedom to enjoy life. When her contract ended just before her baby was due, she decided to step back from work to become a full-time mum.

Life took an unexpected turn when her relationship broke down after the birth of her second child. Suddenly, Teresa found herself navigating life as a single mum. When her youngest turned one, she knew she needed to return to work - but this time, it had to be different. She needed a flexible, part-time role with a salary that could cover childcare for her two children.

For six months, Teresa applied for jobs but faced rejection after rejection. She began to feel disheartened, and she started to doubt her worth.

Then, everything changed. While at the library, Teresa met a coach from The Salvation Army’s Employment Plus program. They chatted that day, and soon Teresa was meeting with her coach regularly to work on goals, refresh her CV, and boost her confidence.

After six months of support, Teresa spotted a job opening for a Youth Employment Mentor, working with young people aged 16–24. With her coach’s encouragement, she applied and got the job.

Today, Teresa is thriving in a role she loves, with the work-life balance she always wanted. 

“Thanks to The Salvation Army, I know my worth again,” she says. “I can be a mum but also do something for me and my family.”