Pete Parsons, from Waun Wen, has taken on a maintenance role at Something Different Wholesale after being supported by TBG Learning Swansea.

The 43-year-old had been out of work for around six years, he’d previously worked as a slaughter man and a hospital porter, and joined the e-commerce wholesale giftware business after a successful work placement.

TBG Learning Swansea has helped around 250 people living in the area gain employment over the last 12 months.

Pete said he’s pleased to have joined a successful growing business after a frustrating period out of work.

“Something Different Wholesale is a great company to work for so, I’m really pleased to have been the given this opportunity.

“I did a four week placement which worked well for everyone as it gave me a chance to find out if I liked the job, and if the company liked me, and it’s gone well.

“The team at TBG Learning were really supportive and did everything they could to help me out, and without them I wouldn’t have got this job. They helped with my CV writing, gave me interview advice, and are regularly in touch to find out how I’m getting on.

“It’s very different to jobs I’ve done in the past, and it’s great to be back in work – I’m really enjoying it.”

Something Different manager Anthony David said the company has grown from 13 staff in December to 26 and is set to create a further eight jobs by November.

“We’ve grown considerably since moving to our new premises on the Morganite Works site in Llansamlet, helped by a grant from the Welsh Government’s Economic Growth Fund,” he said.

“We’re growing our online presence across the globe and are creating jobs to support this expansion.

“The recruitment scheme we’ve established with TBG Learning is going very well and Pete has settled in really well with us and quickly become an important member of the team.”

Nick Moss, of TBG Learning, added: “We’ve worked closely with Anthony to help Something Different to fill roles at the company and we’re really pleased Pete has settled in well.

“The Work Programme is proven to help people develop and hone their skills, boost confidence and ultimately help people back into work. We’re continuing to grow our support across the Swansea area and help people get back into work, and long may it continue.”

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