A CORWEN resident who suffered a brain injury in a car accident three years ago has celebrated moving from volunteering to paid employment.

Andrew Studer was left reliant on his family after the incident in 2021, and in 2023, his relatives sought help from Working Denbighshire.

He was matched with a mentor, Jen, who developed a personalised plan to support his journey to independence.

His plan focused on securing a volunteering role as a step towards paid employment. It included:

  • Finding a volunteering role suited to his abilities
  • Improving communication and confidence
  • Crafting a tailored CV
  • Supporting his wellbeing and independence

By May 2023, Andrew started volunteering at Plas Newydd in Llangollen, gradually building his confidence and even taking the bus independently for the first time since his accident.

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That August, he took on new challenges, including volunteering at the Llangollen Eisteddfod, which boosted his independence and made his family proud.

In April 2024, Andrew expanded his volunteering experience to Llangollen Railway, where he developed new skills.

By August, his hard work paid off, and he secured a paid role through the Work Start Scheme, starting in September.

He said: "My family and I had fantastic support from Working Denbighshire, especially from Jen, who was always just a phone call away.

“Their support took a huge weight off my wife's shoulders, and at one point, I thought returning to work would be impossible but with their help, I’ve now secured paid employment."

 Jen, his mentor, said: "I'm incredibly proud of all that Andrew has accomplished.

“He and his wife appreciated having a reliable point of contact for support, and I feel honoured to have been part of his journey."