From Setback to Success: Alex’s Journey Back to Work

A Newport man, out of work for two decades following life-changing surgery, has landed the perfect role—despite the pandemic’s disruption.

Alex, 46, is now an administrator with the British Red Cross, thanks to the support of Cyfle Cymru Gwent, Kaleidoscope’s out-of-work service.

Since reaching out in December, Alex has overcome both physical and mental barriers that once made finding work feel impossible.

Alex suffered from Crohn’s disease throughout his childhood. His condition was so severe that he had to be fed by an intravenous drip.

At 35, he became one of the UK’s first patients to undergo a risky transplant procedure.

Despite the pandemic, Alex has made a smooth transition into employment—even helping to solve COVID-related challenges.

“I’ve joined an incredibly supportive team, and they allowed me to settle in without expecting me to know everything right away.

We soon transitioned to working from home, and as the newest team member, I had some worries. But they put me at ease, and it’s been smooth sailing since.

Each week, I help collate pharmacy prescriptions, which have increased due to the pandemic.”

“A New Start”

Alex credits his Cyfle Cymru mentors for helping him rebuild his confidence and reshape his outlook.

“The employability workshops focused on positive thinking, and I overcame some limiting beliefs about what I could do.

Most of my past experience was in IT support, but their coaching helped me explore different career options.

Whenever I tried to get employment support before, I felt like no one truly listened to my unique challenges.

I was constantly recommended jobs involving heavy lifting, which my surgery won’t allow me to do. That was discouraging.”

“Giving Back”

Before accepting his new role, Alex volunteered at Addenbrooke Hospital, making two-hour round trips to reassure transplant patients that recovery is possible.

This passion for helping others also led him to meet his wife, Diana. He became involved with Multi Organ Transplant Support (MOTS)—a charity founded by Diana’s niece to help transplant recipients.

“Could You Use Some Support?”

Cyfle Cymru Gwent helps people build confidence, gain training and qualifications, and re-enter the workforce.

The initiative supports individuals affected by substance use and/or mental health conditions to develop the skills needed to secure meaningful employment.