Laura Cox and her two children, aged 7 and 14, were left devastated when her 39-year-old husband Ian passed away two/three years ago from non-hodgkins lymphoma.
Consumed with grief and having to care full time for her children she found it difficult to apply for jobs and remained out of work for some time.
But after embarking on a civil service training course with skills provider Release Potential and gaining qualifications in mentoring and coaching Laura, has now landed a job as a Learner Support officer, helping others get the skills they need to also turn their lives around.
Laura, aged 36 from Bilston, Wolverhampton, said: “When my work coach referred me to a civil service programme with Release Potential, I was in a low place. I wanted to create a sound and structured life for my two children, but I was grieving and had limited opportunities to apply for roles. I had been out of work for a while, caring for my mother-in-law, and then my husband, before they died.
“The training proved completely life-changing. I became more motivated, confident and I now look forward to waking up with a new energy for what the day has in store.
“I’m proud to be a role model for my children, and I’ve discovered I want to make a difference to the lives of other people.
“After getting a Level 3 qualification in Coaching and Mentoring, Release Potential offered me a work placement and later appointed me to the role of Learner Support. I’ve now progressed to the role of Tutor Support and am studying towards a Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training. I want to progress with mental health support and special educational needs training too.”
Last night (Thursday June 27) Laura was named Inspirational Adult Learner at the 2024 Adult Learning Awards held at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham.
She was one of many learners from the region commended for their inspirational learning journeys at the annual Awards –which recognise individuals and organisations who have gone above and beyond in adult learning, skills and training.
Gaye Hutchinson, CEO of Release Potential, said: “I have total admiration for how Laura has accepted every opportunity on offer. Her family are so proud of her, and she is proud to show her children how her hard work is paying off. Laura’s journey can only inspire, and thankfully she is happy to share her experiences and allow others to understand that they too can overcome their barriers.”
The Adult Learning Awards shine a light on learners, tutors, employers and providers drawing on funding from the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) - 13 winners and five highly commended learning journeys were showcased at the ceremony through a series of short films.
Since the region’s Adult Education Budget was devolved to the WMCA in 2019, more than £700m of public funding has been targeted on jobs and skills training, helping to attract additional private sector investment.
Helene Dearn, the WMCA’s interim director of employment, skills, health and communities, said: “Celebrating our adult learning champions has been an incredibly inspiring day.
“The West Midlands is filled with talented people whose enormous potential is being recognised throughout our Employment and Skills strategy.
“The WMCA, has a bold ambition and clear plans to build a more prosperous and better-connected West Midlands that provides opportunities for us all to thrive. Learning and skills are at the heart of our plans and these awards showcase the incredible work already changing peoples’ lives.
“This year we are especially proud to showcase the role played by employers and supporting organisations to help residents improve their employment prospects, whether through apprenticeships, skills bootcamps, or other innovative programs.
“Congratulations to every single nominee and especially our winners and thank you for sharing your experiences with others looking to make a change.”
The event was hosted by Birmingham born actor, academic, coach and leadership consultant for Telos Partners LLP, Nicholas Bailey, who is perhaps best known to the public for playing the role of GP, Dr Anthony Trueman, in BBC’s 'EastEnders' from 2000 to 2004.
Nick said: “I am a strong believer in creating an environment where everyone in a local community can build a mindset to fulfil their potential in both their working and personal lives, no matter their background or circumstances.
“As a teacher, consultant and learning researcher in my home region, I understand the importance of inclusive support, finding appropriate teaching methods for all and building positive, experiential learning environments which help build a culture of confidence so that 'no learner is left behind.' Every learner should have the resources and influences to help them believe in and see the future they desire, whatever their learning style, background or personal circumstances.
“That’s why I am a such a strong believer in the need for these awards. I am proud to be hosting them again and to have the opportunity to honour those achievers and supporters who, despite whatever adversity they have encountered, have created new circumstances in their lives. This can only inspire others and boost this region. The Adult Learning Awards will continue to help change the perception of adult learning, encourage people to see and fulfil their potential and celebrate the exceptional adult learning opportunities and resources in this region.”
Stephen Evans, Chief Executive of Learning and Work Institute, the independent policy and research organisation who help develop and deliver the awards, said: “We are proud to have partnered with the WMCA for a second year to deliver the Adult Learning Awards. Lifelong learning has a transformational impact on individuals, communities and businesses and the stories we’ve heard today are testament to that. We congratulate all the winners for 2024 and hope their stories encourage more people to take part in learning.”
Jonathan Foot, Head of Apprenticeships & Early Careers at Compass Group UK & Ireland said: "Xcelerate with Edgbaston, Compass Group UK & Ireland’s inaugural regional community skills and learning centre, is thrilled to sponsor the West Midland Combined Authority Adult Learning Awards. We strongly believe in the power of lifelong learning and are proud to support this initiative that celebrates the achievements of adult learners and the innovative delivery and community partners who empower them. It was great to see so many worthy winners at a fantastic awards ceremony!"
Full details of winners and individual profiles are available on the WMCA website.
