A RHYL man has been hailed an inspiration after recovering from a personal loss to change careers and start his own business.

43-year-old Ellis Meredith-Owen had worked in care for 24 years until a personal loss drove him to a “dark” place.

By chance, he came across a Working Wales advert and decided to make an appointment.

Working Wales, a Welsh Government service that provides careers guidance and employability support, has helped more than 100,000 people since its launch in May 2019.

In Ellis’ case, his career adviser Richard guided him through questionnaires, research, quizzes and conversations to help him decide what job he wanted. 

“The sessions with Richard helped me narrow down my focus and I decided to look at becoming a celebrant, something that had come up on the aptitude quizzes,” said Ellis.

“Richard introduced me to ReAct+ funding and helped me apply. It meant I was able to look at the best course for my needs.

“The course was just life-changing, it was in a beautiful venue, and I felt I’d found my calling. I really enjoyed it and made friends I‘m still in touch with now.”

The ReAct+ programme provides tailored support to help people into work and remove their barriers to employment.

Since completing the training, Ellis is able to work as a celebrant while he works towards his National Open College Network (NOCN) qualification and has set up his own business.

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Now Ellis is encouraging others to reach out for the same support, and added: “I saw Richard one last time after setting up my business.

“Throughout the whole process, he was so supportive and not judgmental at all – something I was worried about as a 43-year-old who had quit their job.

 

“Working Wales helped steady me and see a clear path - they shone a light in the dark.”

Welsh Government economy minister Vaughan Gething said: “We want to empower people to control their own futures, whatever the uncertainties we face.

“Ellis’ inspirational story shows how our Working Wales service is helping people to do just that.

“Through the provision of a range of high quality, impartial careers guidance services, we are broadening people’s horizons and nurturing the skills people need to navigate today’s modern labour market.

“We are proud to see the Working Wales service achieve the recent milestone of supporting more than 100,000 people.”

Mandy Ifans, head of employment advice at Careers Wales, said: “Ellis’ story is a fantastic example of how Working Wales can support people to find the career that is the best fit for them.

“I’m delighted to hear that Ellis has found success as a celebrant and is looking forward to continuing with his new business.”