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You are here: Home / Archives for Declan Claughan

Declan Claughan

Free Mental Health Support for Young Jobseekers Through Tellme+

Declan Claughan · August 11, 2026 ·

Looking for a job can be exciting, but it can also feel stressful and overwhelming. If you’re aged 16 to 30 and feeling worried about your future, struggling with confidence, or finding that your mental health is making it harder to find or stay in work, help is available.

Tellmi+ Jobseeker Support is a free app that provides mental health and wellbeing support specifically for young people who are looking for work or taking their first steps into employment. The platform offers a safe, private space where users can talk about what’s on their mind, access advice and resources, and connect with additional support when needed.

The app is designed to help young people build resilience, manage anxiety and feel more confident throughout their employment journey. Whether you’re preparing for interviews, waiting for exam results, starting a new role or simply feeling uncertain about your next steps, Tellmi+ can provide support tailored to your situation.

Alongside the app, young people can also access Trainmi, a three-month programme focused on building confidence and developing valuable skills for work. Participants receive training and practical support to help them feel more prepared and positive about employment opportunities.

If mental health challenges are affecting your employment goals, remember that you don’t have to face them alone.

Find out more and download Tellmi+ Jobseeker Support today.

Finding the Right Path to Employment

Declan Claughan · February 6, 2025 ·

Finding the Right Path to Employment Transcript.pdf

At 17, Connor Usher found himself uncertain about his future. After leaving college because it wasn’t the right fit, he spent months unsure of what to do next. Traditional options like the Job Centre didn’t feel like the right place for him, and he didn’t know there were other organisations that could help.

That changed when he found DurhamWorks. Through their support, Connor gained confidence, improved his communication skills, and found a clear path forward. With the guidance of his advisor, he secured a role as a Peer Mentor with Groundwork. Now, he’s not just in full-time employment—he’s helping others who are in the same position he once was.

DurhamWorks gave Connor the direction and support he needed, and now he’s doing the same for others.

How DurhamWorks Helps Employers Find the Right Talent

Declan Claughan · February 4, 2025 ·

How DurhamWorks Helps Employers Find the Right Talent.pdf

The Auckland Project is a charity on regeneration, tourism, and creating opportunities for young people. As part of their mission, they aim to support young people in developing skills and securing employment.

Richard Hinch, Head of Learning and Skills at The Auckland Project, has worked with DurhamWorks to recruit and support young employees. Through this partnership, the charity has successfully hired two people from DurhamWorks, including one candidate who originally joined through The Prince’s Trust. This individual required additional job coaching and support during their work placement, which DurhamWorks provided.

By offering tailored guidance and a structured transition, DurhamWorks made the hiring process easier for the Auckland Project. The organisation not only gained valuable employees but also had the confidence that the new hires were receiving the support they needed to succeed in their roles.

The partnership goes both ways – when The Auckland project encounters young people who could benefit from additional support, they refer them to DurhamWorks. This ensures that more young people can access the training and opportunities needed to enter the workforce.

If you’re an employer looking to see how DurhamWorks can improve your business, head over to our Employers page to learn more. 

From Lost to Confident: Kayleigh’s Journey to Becoming a Nail Technician

Declan Claughan · January 7, 2025 ·

From Lost to Confident: Kayleigh’s Journey to Becoming a Nail Technician.pdf

Kayleigh, a 21-year-old aspiring beauty professional, always had a passion for nail art. Her journey began when she discovered her love for beauty while doing her family’s nails for her sister’s wedding. However, the COVID-19 pandemic derailed her plans, leaving her feeling stuck and unmotivated about pursuing her dreams.

Encouraged by her parents, Kayleigh joined DurhamWorks, where she attended her first session with a dedicated coach. Initially nervous and anxious about meeting new people, she quickly felt supported and listened to by the friendly staff. Through social activities and one-on-one sessions, Kayleigh gradually built her confidence, which helped her step outside her comfort zone.

Kayleigh writing her CV

DurhamWorks provided her with essential skills, including CV writing, completing application forms, and improving time management and teamwork. With their support, Kayleigh was able to focus on her goals and secure a position as a trainee nail technician at a local salon.

Today, Kayleigh works part-time in her dream role, confidently interacting with clients and colleagues daily. She reflects on her transformation and newfound independence, feeling like a completely different person and rediscovering her sense of self.

DurhamWorks helps young people overcome barriers and achieve their aspirations. Get started with DurhamWorks today! Complete our referral form or call us on 03000 262 930

What Does Your Future You Look Like?

Declan Claughan · December 2, 2024 ·

Imagine it’s your first day at a new job. You walk in, coffee in hand, feeling a little nervous but also excited. The work fits you. The environment feels right.

Now, let’s be real—getting there isn’t always easy. The future you doesn’t just appear out of nowhere. You have to make some choices.

At DurhamWorks, we’re here to help you shape that future. Whether you’re finishing school or considering a career change, we’ve got tools and support to guide you every step of the way.

Close up of a woman writing a CV

Here’s How We Help

Starting can be tough. Maybe you don’t feel confident. Maybe you’re not sure where to even begin. That’s where we come in:

  • Skill-building: We’ll help you craft a CV that gets noticed, prep you for interviews, and build the confidence you need to step into your first day.
  • Personalized advice: Unsure what job suits you? We’ll help you figure it out and point you in the right direction.
  • Employer connections: We work with employers who are looking for people like you. No experience? No problem.
  • Support with challenges: Whether it’s accessibility issues or self-doubt, we’re here to make sure you have what you need to succeed.

Why Start Now?

The thing about “future you” is they won’t exist if you don’t take action today. It doesn’t need to be perfect. It just needs to be a step forward.

Young and diverse group of people holding a business meeting.

Ready to Start?

The future you is out there, showing up and making things happen. Let’s get you started.

Get started with DurhamWorks today! Complete our referral form or call us on 03000 262 930

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