At Great Places, our Employability Service continues to be a lifeline for customers seeking meaningful work, personal growth and renewed confidence. One of the driving forces behind this transformation is Naseem Aktar, Employability Coach in Oldham, whose dedication and personalised approach have helped many customers overcome barriers and rediscover their potential.
We spent time with Naseem and met Mrs. Adebola Oluseyi-Ogunlana, a customer whose journey with the service highlights the power of tailored support and genuine care.
Adebola’s Journey: From uncertainty to confidence and success
Adebola first connected with Naseem through a proactive email outreach. “She reached out to me to check if I needed help with employment,” Adebola recalls. That initial contact led to support with project management training and later, a deeper engagement when Adebola wanted to change her career path.
“She sat with me, helped me look for jobs, and gave me loads of interview tips,” Adebola shares. “She kept saying, ‘You’ll be fine,’ and that really boosted my confidence.”
With Naseem’s guidance, Adebola applied for a role at Great Places, secured an interview, and felt empowered throughout the process. “Before, I felt laid back. I kept getting rejections and thought maybe this wasn’t for me. But now, I know I can do this.”
And she did. Adebola has now secured a job as an Independent & Wellbeing Housing Assistant at Lorna Lodge, a fantastic achievement and a fitting conclusion to her journey. “It’s really been helpful,” she says. “The passion Naseem puts into her work is encouraging. I recommend this service to anyone who wants to improve themselves.”
Naseem’s approach: Building trust as a first step
Naseem’s work begins with understanding each customer’s unique situation. “I focus on building trust first,” she explains. “Then we set small, achievable steps—confidence-building sessions, CV support, interview prep, or linking to training.”
She works flexibly, often meeting customers in their homes or communal spaces. “Many aren’t comfortable coming into an office. I meet them where they feel safe.”
Her support is deeply personalised. “Some need to build confidence first, others are ready to explore jobs. I create action plans that suit their pace and adjust as we go.”
Naseem tackles a wide range of employment barriers: long-term unemployment, health conditions, caring responsibilities and digital exclusion. She also combats social isolation, especially among residents in Independent and Wellbeing schemes.
She maintains strong partnerships with local colleges, training providers and employers. “We’re lucky to have a barrier-busting budget for travel, smart wear, training, and more.”
One standout initiative is a beauty training course in Oldham, delivered in partnership with Tatti Lashes. “Not everyone wants a 9-to-5. This gives residents a chance to pursue self-employment in something they’re passionate about.”
For Naseem, success isn’t just about job offers. “It’s about progression, confidence, independence, and moving closer to work, even through volunteering or training.”
She tracks outcomes monthly, but the real reward is seeing customers believe in themselves again. “Adebola has come a long way. Now I know I can leave her to do job searches and applications on her own. The final step was securing a job and now, my job is done!”
A service that listens, supports, and transforms
Naseem’s story is a powerful reminder of what personalised, empathetic coaching can achieve. Whether it’s helping someone rebuild after a toxic workplace or guiding them toward a new career path, the Employability Service at Great Places is changing customers lives.
If you know someone who could benefit from this support, or if you’d like to refer a customer, visit: https://thestudy.learn.link/content/621909827dbb13e853b67536=
