Michael’s story

Michael’s story

The pandemic has prompted many people to consider new career paths. It was during this time that Michael explored the idea of a career change and doing something that he had enjoyed for several years: making furniture.

After discussions with his wife, Michael applied for a two-year apprenticeship at a local cabinet making company. It was a huge step to take given he would be a mature apprentice on a reduced income with a mortgage still to pay and a wife and two young children to support.

Almost a year into Michael’s apprenticeship, the family started to struggle with bills, a situation exacerbated by a spike in the cost of energy prices. Michael found out about us while searching on the Turn2Us website, a national charity that helps people in financial hardship to gain access to welfare benefits, charitable grants and support services. We were able to offer a grant to help the family with their everyday household outgoings.

Commenting on the support he received, Michael said: “The Furniture Makers’ Company has been a huge help for me and my family. Starting the apprenticeship was daunting, knowing the lower wage I’d be going on to. This grant has allowed us to ease the stress of these extra costs during my apprenticeship
and gives more time to enjoy creating furniture and spending time with my family.”

With over a year to go in his apprenticeship, we wish Michael well in his new chosen career.