Maddi hits the back of the net after securing full-time employment with AFC Wimbledon Foundation through Kickstart

Maddi Sweetman, 22, found it hard to secure employment due to the COVID-19 pandemic, in which she battled with her mental health after losing her job when the pandemic struck. However, Maddi has been able to overcome mental health problems, and through the Kickstart scheme, she has been able to land a full-time role at AFC Wimbledon Foundation.

Maddi struggled to find work opportunities and found herself battling mental health problems. Maddi was supported by work coaches at Epsom Jobcentre Plus, who helped Maddi overcome her initial reluctance to apply for Universal Credit.

Maddi talked about her difficult situation at the time:

“My mental health has always been a struggle. Finding a job is so much harder when you believe you’re not good enough.”

“I told my work coaches Julia and Emma about my mental health and how it was a hurdle for me in every aspect, even being on the phone to them. They immediately calmed me and were so accommodating, conversational, humane and easy to talk to. I felt like I finally had someone who I could talk to about finding the job right for me.”

Maddi’s fortune changed, as her persistence paid off when a Kickstart position for an Assistant Community Coach became available at AFC Wimbledon Foundation.

Kickstart is a programme that aims to get young people aged 16 – 24 on Universal Credit back into employment. The initiative sees young people being offered six-month work placements, with wages of up to 25 hours a week being fully paid by the government.

Maddi reflected on her experience:

“I saw the role and thought instantly it was a dream opportunity. Julia did everything she possibly could to ensure I was able to apply for this job. I was accepted for an interview and got new clothes through the Flexible Support Fund. I was offered the job the next day. Between me and my family we could’ve filled a swimming pool with tears!”

“To be able to have an opportunity, not only at the club I love, but just to get my foot in the door for a career in football is so fantastic. I’m so excited to get involved around the community. Helping is my passion, and to know everything I am doing is for a good cause, I couldn’t have asked for anything better.”

Maddi utilised her 6-month kickstart placement at AFC Wimbledon Foundation to the fullest. After making such a positive impact at the organisation, Maddi was offered the opportunity to work in her role on a full-time basis.

Maddi’s work coach Emma added:

“To know Maddi has been kept on at AFC Wimbledon Foundation to complete an apprenticeship is the cherry on-top. I have no doubt that with Maddi’s drive and ambition to help younger people with their mental health, and channelling that through sport, that she has a very bright future.”

Fiona Sutherland, Community Development Manager at AFC Wimbledon Foundation said:

“Maddi has been a pleasure to work with since day one. Her enthusiasm is contagious and passion inspiring. She encourages young people to give everything a go regardless of their ability and puts her all into ensuring everyone in her sessions feels valued and included. We are so pleased to have her on the team and can’t wait to see how she continues to grow and develop throughout her career with us.”

With her dream job secured for the long-term with the football club that she loves, Maddi has now kickstarted her career into the top corner and is set for the summit.

To find out more about the Kickstart programme, please click here.