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Denise Good News Story
The encouragement and practical support I received made a positive difference in helping me move closer towards my employment goals.
Denise, Connect to Work participant
Denise was referred by Catriona, a Social Prescriber working across GP surgeries in Southwark.
For Denise, employment wasn't separate from her health - it was part of her recovery.
Together, Denise and her Employment Specialist Maxine built a Vocational Profile - exploring her passions, hobbies, and what kind of work would truly suit her.
Maxine used employment-focused appointments to help Denise recognise her strengths and progress gradually through every stage of the process.
She also ran a Better Off Calculation so Denise could make fully informed decisions about hours and salary, and understand how work could improve her financial wellbeing.
Denise was referred to Smart Works for interview clothing - so she could walk into interviews feeling prepared and confident.
Shortly after, she secured her first role as a baker.
Even after starting work, Denise chose to stay engaged with the programme - knowing the support was tailored around her needs and that she wasn't navigating the workplace alone.
Behind the scenes, Maxine stayed closely connected with Denise's Social Prescriber through weekly meetings, helping ensure wrap-around support throughout her journey.
The bakery wasn't the right long-term fit. But Denise didn't give up.
She stayed positive, kept working with Maxine, and kept moving forward.
"It has been wonderful to see Denise come out of her shell and believe more in her abilities. Denise's journey is a great example of how the right support, patience, and encouragement can help someone build confidence and move towards meaningful employment and personal growth."
Maxine Evans, Employment Specialist, Southwark CouncilIt has been wonderful to see Denise come out of her shell and believe more in her abilities. Denise's journey is a great example of how the right support, patience, and encouragement can help someone build confidence and move towards meaningful employment and personal growth. — Maxine Evans, Employment Specialist, Southwark Council
Denise has now secured a new position at a prominent London hotel - learning new skills, growing in confidence, and continuing to build towards her future.
Her story is now being shared by Social Prescribers with colleagues and patients as an example of how employment can support recovery.
This is what personalised, joined-up employment support can achieve.
That's Connect to Work in action.
Published: Oct 1, 2026