A PEMBROKESHIRE teenager is now in her dream job – and has already gained a promotion – after seeking support from Jobs Growth Wales.

18-year-old Annmarie Coates from Pembroke Dock was encouraged to sign up for the Welsh Government run programme after being inspired by her family to seek support from a local training provider to help her improve her communication skills and explore potential employment opportunities.

Annmarie was able to reignite her love for cooking as well as earn new qualifications and develop her confidence in talking to others.

Annmarie is currently waiting for a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and was given an interview with care home Pembroke Haven Residential Home. She was successful with the interview.

Annmarie said: “Thanks to the support of the Jobs Growth Wales+ team and the staff at Pembroke Haven I’ve completely come out of my shell in the last year.

“I knew I loved cooking, but I’d previously struggled working in a pub environment, so felt stuck at a career crossroads. Thankfully the team at PRP Training helped me find a job that was right for me and my needs.”

She continued: “The team helped coach me through mock interview questions, as well as gain new qualifications which helped boost my CV.

“I also noticed my confidence and communication skills grow when I undertook some volunteering work with the British Red Cross in Tenby and with Dezza’s Cabin – a mental health charity local to me. It was really rewarding to help support those in my local area.

“I’m so grateful for the support of the programme – I started as a kitchen assistant in a local care home in February last year and I have loved it ever since. Everyone I work with is so friendly and I’ve loved building relationships with the residents I cook for in the care home.

“It’s been perfect for me as I get to work with the same, lovely people every day and do a job that makes me happy.”

Annmarie continued: “I have developed so much in a short space of time, and I’ve already been promoted to the afternoon shift where I will be authorised to work in the kitchen on my own.

“Earning a wage has given me so much freedom, including being able to fully fund my driving lessons. I’ve recently passed my test and bought my own car which has been life-changing!

“My dream is to become a manager of a kitchen one day, or even my own restaurant, pub or burger van – the opportunities are endless, you’ve just got to have the confidence to go for it.”

Katrina Poole, Pembroke Haven Residential Home’s deputy manager, said: “Annmarie has become a completely different person since starting at the care home. She was so nervous in her first few weeks, but her enthusiasm has shone through and she’s now confident chatting to all the residents and preparing food in the kitchen while gaining hands-on experience.

“I’d encourage any young people who are unsure about their future to consider Jobs Growth Wales+. Annmarie is our third hire from the programme, and they have all gone on to be very successful in their chosen careers.”

To find out more about Jobs Growth Wales+ visit www.workingwales.gov.wales/jobs-growth-wales-plus or call Working Wales on 0800 028 4844.