Our Candidates' Stories

Kirsty Jones

Initial Contact

For several months, I felt that a major life change was about to occur, and on some level I knew that the direction I was moving toward was going to be filled with possibilities I had never previously considered.

Slowly, I began taking steps and exploring what I really wanted for myself, without factoring in any limitations. In the midst of attaining this self-awareness, I received a newsletter in the mail describing the need for social workers in the UK.

Immediately, I thought that this could be an amazing adventure that would incorporate my professional abilities and all of my personal interests, pursuits and desires.

Immigration

I began researching recruiting agencies and decided to utilize the skills of Sanctuary Social Care because of the high level of service they were willing to provide.

Sanctuary offered a very personalised experience and thoroughly attended to every detail associated with the process, including GSCC registration, which had seemed very daunting.

The agency proved to be quite knowledgeable in all the various areas of social work practice, opportunities available and the nature of potential employers.

I felt confidence and trust in the information provided by Sanctuary’s team of professionals and I had faith that I would be placed in an environment that met my needs and expectations because my Sanctuary Social Care professional truly listened to what I most wanted to achieve during this upcoming endeavor.

The Move

One fateful morning, my representative called with the exciting news of a job interview for what turned out to be a dream and opportunity beyond compare.

Based on information received through consistent emails and telephone calls, I felt prepared for the interview process and I was given an abundance of support from her.

When I arrived in London for the job interview, I received at least one phone call per day to make sure that I was doing well and had everything that I needed, which greatly calmed the anxiety that would have arisen otherwise.

Job interviews in the UK are extremely different from those in America and there is much structure and a panel of individuals asking detailed, thought-provoking questions.

Yet, in spite of the differences, I was well prepared because of Sanctuary’s attention. In addition, the individuals I will be working with and the agency itself turned out to be a wonderful fit. I felt comfortable with the supervisors and co-workers I met and our personalities meshed very well, which I consider to be an important component of a work environment.

Arrival

Upon receiving my position in London, I arrived back in America and began taking care of all necessities of moving abroad, including selling my home, packing, and saying good-bye to loved ones.

The important people in my life all knew about my plan to move to London since the idea was conceptualized, and they have been extremely encouraging and supportive.

I have received nothing but positive feedback and they now have a very good excuse to come to Europe as often as possible!

Starting Work

The placement, agency culture and location are exactly what I hoped for, I am grateful for the level of expertise and care provided by Sanctuary and each representative I have come in contact with had been lovely and an absolute pleasure to work with.

My case has gone smoothly, but I am confident that if any concerns or problematic situations arise with future candidates, Sanctuary will handle them promptly, accurately and with a high level of professionalism. With Sanctuary you can pursue your dreams through working with a team of individuals dedicated to your success and happiness.