Karol Kurpiewski is celebrating his Kickstart journey after joining Ashbridge Roofing in September 2021 following a change in career.
He was employed through the government-backed Kickstart scheme, which provides funding to employers to create six month long placements for people between 16 and 24 years old and currently receiving Universal Credit.
Ongo signed up to offer the scheme last year and has since helped over 60 people into new roles.
Before joining Ashbridge, Karol was working within the care sector, but realised that wasn’t where he aspired to develop his career.
That’s when he got in touch with Ongo’s employment support team to help him in his search for a new opportunity.
Although it was a big change for Karol, he loved this job right from the start as he was able to work as part of a team but also independently out on the road.
When asked about the role, he said: “Everyone has been so supportive and helped me find something I was good at and given me the opportunity to learn new skills, meet new people and really feel a valued part of the team.”
He added that the on-going support from his Kickstart mentors, Raine and Clare, has helped him so much.
He said: “I feel like a new person. I cannot thank everyone at Ongo and Ashbridge Roofing for this great chance in life.”
During placements, all candidate have access to an Ongo mentor, who supports them every step of the way with training and development.
They also support the business with next steps at the end of the placement.
Karol has now been taken on as a permanent member of staff with Ashbridge Roofing, showing the power of the Kickstart scheme.
Rob Culley, Ashbridge manager, said: “Karol really demonstrated a great work ethic and was keen to learn. We wouldn’t be without him now and we’re pleased to have been able to offer him a permanent role.”
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