Exeter career builders programme marks first year helping adults back into work

An alternative programme designed to help adults in Exeter take their first steps back into employment has marked its first anniversary, with organisers saying it has already helped dozens of people rebuild confidence and re-enter the job market.

The Career Builders initiative, delivered in partnership between Exeter College and Jobcentre Plus, launched in January 2025. 

It was created to offer a gentler, less pressurised route into work, volunteering or further learning for adults who may have been out of employment for a long period.

Unlike traditional jobsearch programmes, Career Builders combine practical employability sessions with a focus on health, wellbeing and confidence-building. 

Participants can attend informal “Try It Out Tuesday” sessions, designed to provide a calm introduction to learning for those who may feel anxious about stepping back into a classroom or structured environment.

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Organisers say the programme tailors support around individual circumstances, recognising that barriers to employment can range from caring responsibilities and health issues to low self-confidence and long gaps in work history. 

Over its first year, participants have progressed into employment, volunteering roles or have reached a stage where they feel ready to actively seek new opportunities.

One of those supported is Kelly Walsh, an unpaid carer who had found the idea of exploring new opportunities daunting. Encouraged by her Jobcentre work coach, she attended a Try It Out Tuesday session to see what the programme involved.

The informal setting helped her gradually rebuild her confidence, and she is now attending regular one-to-one employability advice sessions with the Devon County Council Employment Hub following a warm handover referral.

Kelly said the sessions offered “a gentle introduction to meeting other people, where you can carry out an activity that puts you at ease and allows you to be yourself without the pressure to be the best. Plus, cake and tea to make the experience even more enjoyable.”

The initiative is also being welcomed by Jobcentre staff in Exeter. Work Coach Courtney Dyson regularly attends sessions alongside the people she supports, helping to create continuity and trust outside the more formal Jobcentre environment.

Courtney said: “I cannot say enough good things about Career Builders and the positive impacts it is having on my claimants. It is a special thing to see their confidence and self-esteem grow in such a short period of time.”

“They are also a lot more engaged in other services as a result. Career Builders is a safe space for all.”

Maddy Hearn, Adult Community and Partnerships Manager at Exeter College, said the first year had demonstrated how important small, manageable steps can be for people who feel disconnected from the workplace.

“We’ve learned a great deal in the first year of this programme,” she said. 

“One of the clearest lessons is that many people who are out of work sometimes need to take small, manageable steps. For some, this means rebuilding their confidence; for others, it’s simply about reconnecting with people before they feel ready to move forward.

“We’ve welcomed people who felt unsure, disconnected or overwhelmed, and after accessing the right support, they have gradually regained their confidence and begun developing the skills they need to move towards employment.”

With economic pressures continuing to affect households across the city, partners say they hope the programme will continue to provide an accessible route back into work for Exeter residents who might otherwise struggle to engage with more traditional employment support.

Residents interested in taking part can contact the Adult Learning team at Exeter College or speak to their Jobcentre Plus work coach for more information about upcoming sessions.