“I found my confidence again after the menopause shattered it”: Adult learner’s life transformed by courses

Clare Allison’s story exemplifies the impact that adult education can have not only in employment but in your well-being.

Clare recently completed a series of courses at Creating Positive Opportunity (CPO), a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting young people and adults in developing skills, employability, and training. Reflecting on her experience, Clare credits her time as an adult learner for restoring her confidence during a particularly challenging period in her life.

She said: “Going through the menopause was crippling. It shattered my confidence completely, and I felt useless.”

Clare's journey began when her job coach at Grimsby's Jobcentre Plus informed her about adult learning opportunities across North East Lincolnshire. She was subsequently directed to the provider ‘Standguide’ to take part in their work programme, before discovering CPO.

From there, Clare went from strength to strength, completing courses in Functional Skills English and Maths, Digital Admin, employment training, and personal development.

Reflecting on her experience, Clare said: “I can now do presentations, and my confidence has just soared. I just feel amazing, and I have proved to myself that I can achieve. I never thought this would be possible, especially going through the menopause.”

Tracey Rodger-Gibbs, Employability and Functional Skills Tutor at CPO, has witnessed Clare's transformation firsthand, saying: “When Clare started around two years ago, she was extremely shy and quiet. Since spending time with us, she has completely come out of her shell and improved in all aspects of her skills and learning.”

The collaborative efforts of various training and employment services in North East Lincolnshire have played a crucial role in Clare's success. These services provide a supportive learning environment where adults can meet like-minded individuals and receive comprehensive support across different aspects of their lives.

Employment figures in North East Lincolnshire reveal a significant gender gap in economic activity, with 74.4% of males being economically active compared to just 68.1% of females. Clare's story highlights the importance of continuing to support women in getting back into learning, ensuring equal opportunities to contribute to the region's economic growth.

With newfound skills and confidence, Clare is now planning to enter the workforce. Her journey is just one of many inspiring stories of local adult learners, demonstrating the transformative impact that learning can have on personal development and confidence, especially during challenging times like menopause.

Councillor Philip Jackson, Leader and Portfolio Holder for Economy, Regeneration, Devolution and Skills, commends Clare's achievements. "It's great to see what Clare has accomplished. This is a prime example of what our adult learners can achieve. Education is not dependent on age, as Clare has shown. It's available to everyone who wants to better themselves in North East Lincolnshire, and I encourage anyone who is thinking about it to enrol."

Research from the Learning and Work Institute supports Clare's experience, demonstrating that adult learning has numerous health benefits, including improved life satisfaction, mental health, and memory. The review also highlighted the positive impact on confidence and social skills.

Councillor Stan Shreeve, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Health, Wellbeing, and Adult Social Care, emphasised the importance of recognising the relationship between social interaction gained from employment and training and the health and wellbeing of residents.

He said: “These connections can significantly enhance mental health, reduce feelings of isolation, and promote overall wellbeing. By fostering a supportive environment, we continue to empower residents to thrive both professionally and personally.”

For information on adult learning courses, training days and upcoming events, visit www.nelincs.gov.uk/adult-education-and-learning.