Single Dad who battled anxiety after death of his own father now in dream job at TV castle

A SINGLE Dad who battled anxiety after the loss of his own father secured a dream job thanks to Conwy Employment Hub.

Dave Hobson, from Rhos-on-Sea, is now working as a security guard on sites including Gwrych Castle in Abergele – scene of the recent series of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here – having previously worked at fish and chip shops and a taxi firm.

The 27 year-old had always wanted to join the industry but the cost of obtaining an SIA (Security Industry Authority) licence while raising son Tyler alone was a barrier to success.

Fortunately, Dave was referred to Conwy Employment Hub – which incorporates the Communities for Work, Communities for Work Plus, ADTRAC and PaCE programmes – providing anyone aged 16 and above who is not in employment, school or college with access to mentors and advisors who can help enhance their future career prospects.

They not only paid for Dave to complete the qualification but also transport to and from the test centre.

Sadly, as Dave was about to begin the new role his dad Gwyn passed away, causing him to pause and reflect on whether he was ready for such a dramatic change in circumstances.

“I wasn’t in the right frame of mind to be dealing with people, especially as a security guard; I was anxious, my confidence was low and I needed time to get my head around everything,” said the former pupil at Ysgol John Bright, Llandudno.

“Conwy Employment Hub were incredibly supportive, if not for them I would never have been able to pay for everything as it can be quite expensive, especially in my position as a single dad.

“But they came to my rescue and I am now in a much better place, I can’t thank them enough.”

He added: “I still do work as a radio operator at a taxi company, which I enjoy, but for years I was a fry cook, that’s what I did out of school.

“I always wanted to work in security, and in past weeks have found a job and am absolutely loving it, especially when working at the castle and different sites here in North Wales.

“I am excited to see what the future brings for both Tyler and I and encourage anyone in Conwy county who may be struggling to get in touch with the Employment Hub – they’ve been amazing.”

Libby Duo, Conwy’s Principal Officer for Skills and Employability, congratulated Dave on his new role and said in partnership with organisations such as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), Welsh Government and local companies they will continue to be there for those who need it most.

“Dave is an example of someone who required that little bit of help to get where he needed to be,” she said.

“He deserves this opportunity, we are delighted he has found a job and is enjoying this new start.”

Libby added: “One of the key priorities for Conwy Employment Hub is removing barriers, often challenges that can be overcome with financial or emotional support, as well as time and understanding.

“For some people, the little things are big things, whether that be finding someone to look after the children or clothes for an interview, or even having food in the cupboard.

“We are here for you and will do all we can to smooth the road ahead for those who are struggling.”

As well as providing links to employment opportunities and a suite of free courses, Conwy Employment Hub can also aid with writing CVs, interview techniques and tips, volunteering, work placements, basic IT skills and confidence building.

Communities for Work is a voluntary programme funded by the Welsh European Funding Office and provides a £41.2m investment in employment support in the 52 Communities First Clusters across Wales– this includes £24.8m of European Union funds. The programme is co-sponsored by the Department for Work and Pensions and runs until 2022.