Skip to main content
redundancy amir's story

Amir’s story of coping with redundancy during coronavirus

Find out how we supported Amir after he faced redundancy and his income dropped, as a result of coronavirus restrictions in the UK.

Until May this year, I worked as an Electronics Engineer in Basingstoke. As coronavirus swept through the country, I could see work was slowing down, although I was hopeful things would pick up.

But as the situation worsened and sales continued to stall, I was told I was being made redundant and put on ‘gardening leave’.

I was shocked and worried about what would happen next. Many people faced redundancy during coronavirus but the timing really wasn’t good. I had a four-year old at home and a new baby on the way. My biggest fear was that I wouldn’t find another job and would be unable to look after my family. I was really beginning to feel the pressure.

That’s when I got in touch with Foothold. The work Foothold does isn’t new to me. A couple of years ago when I was looking for work, I discovered that I could get some help with my CV through Foothold’s career support programme. I hoped they’d be able to help again.

Redundancy support

The process was quite easy. I put in a request and to my surprise, they said they were able to help with an emergency grant! It was brilliant news and such a relief to have some breathing space financially.

The money will help with our day-to-day living expenses until I can work again.

The £1000 grant will definitely make a difference to our family and is very much appreciated. I’m hopeful that I’ll be able to find work again soon and put the redundancy behind me. I have an interview lined up and am keeping a positive attitude. If anyone’s in a similar situation to me, I’d say do reach out to Foothold, they are there to help.

If you’re struggling to make ends meet for any reason and could use some support, you’re not alone. Our team is ready to listen and help. Get in touch with us now. 

SUPPORT FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY, STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX

Sign up to our mailing list to receive expert advice to help you improve your financial, mental and physical wellbeing, so that you can live well every day. We'll also send you the latest news and updates, and information on how you can get involved with Foothold and support the engineering community.

An image showing someone's hands holding a mobile phone. The phone is displaying a version of the Foothold monthly newsletter.

Winter Warmth Network: Support for UK families struggling with energy costs

Our CEO Jane explains how Foothold has connected with the Winter Warmth Network to enable our community to get the right support this winter

A branded blog header graphic that reads: 'Martin Griffin, engineer and neurodiversity advocate', with a picture of Martin smiling

Neurodiversity at work: How leaders and managers can support neurodiverse staff to thrive

Neurodivergent engineer Martin shares his some top tips to help leaders empower neurodiverse colleagues to thrive at work.

Working with ADHD: Thriving with FREE Help from Access to Work

Sam shares her experience with Access To Work and how it can help other engineers with neurodiversity.