Challenge (Before)
A Ukrainian woman in her early 40s attended a DPIA Education and Employment Forum after struggling to understand how to rebuild her career in Wales. Although professionally qualified in Ukraine, she felt overwhelmed by the education and employment system and lacked confidence in her spoken English. The attendee wanted to return to work in a role linked to her previous experience but did not understand how qualifications from Ukraine were recognised in the UK. She was particularly concerned about how to have her Ukrainian diploma translated and evaluated to support future employment opportunities. The attendee had independently contacted Careers Wales for advice but believed she would need to pay for qualification recognition, which felt financially impossible at the time. As a result, she felt discouraged and uncertain about her future.
Intervention (Action)
The attendee participated in the DPIA Education and Employment Forum, where presentations were delivered by Careers Wales, REACH+ at Cardiff and Vale College, and Adult Learning Wales regarding ESOL pathways, education routes, employability support, and rebuilding confidence after displacement. Through the forum, she learned more about “soft pathways” into education and employment, including ESOL, part-time learning, confidence-building opportunities, and gradual progression into work. Following the session, DPIA staff provided additional one-to-one support. After discussing the attendee’s situation, a DPIA staff member contacted Careers Wales directly to explain her circumstances and barriers. Following this communication, support was arranged for the attendee’s Ukrainian qualifications to be evaluated through the UK ENIC Statement of Comparability process without cost, helping remove a major financial barrier. DPIA staff also provided reassurance, practical information, and encouragement regarding realistic next steps for rebuilding her professional future in Wales.
Results (After)
- The attendee reported feeling significantly more confident about her future opportunities in Wales.
- She gained a clearer understanding of education, employment, and qualification recognition pathways.
- Her Ukrainian diploma was successfully translated and evaluated, increasing confidence in pursuing future employment linked to her skills and experience.
- She became more engaged with ESOL and employability opportunities and felt more hopeful about rebuilding her career.
- Anxiety around “starting again” reduced, and she reported feeling supported rather than alone.
