Article 16 November 2022

Jeffery’s story at Mitie

This is Jeffery Barr’s story, Cleaning Assistant at Mitie.

Due to ill health, Jeffery had spent a lengthy period out of work. He discovered The Mitie Foundation’s Ready to Work programme, which prepared him for interviews and set him up for success. Now he’s a valued member of Mitie’s maintenance team, keeping a hospital spick-and-span, and has a renewed sense of purpose.

“Working for Mitie allows me to be independent and gives me so much hope for the future.”

Jeffery Barr, Cleaning Assistant at Mitie
Jeffery Barr, Cleaning Assistant at Mitie

What’s your Mitie story?

“Before I joined Mitie, I’d been out of work for nearly 18 years. I told my advisor at the job centre that I’d be happy with any job – although I had applied for many positions, it felt like I was often discounted because of my health conditions. My advisor told me about the Ready to Work programme through The Mitie Foundation. I was nervous about applying, but thought ‘what’s the worst that can happen?’

“The Foundation really helped me prepare for going back to work – they supported me to prepare for interview and set me up for success.

“My work experience at Hinchingbrooke Hospital began the following week. Within four weeks, my manager called me to his office and offered me a paid contract! I thought he was joking! Mitie gave me a chance and saw something in me that nobody else had.

“My job gives me the motivation to get up in the morning – I want to work, and I want to give back to society.

“Working for Mitie allows me to be independent and gives me so much hope for the future. It gives me a purpose. Mitie is where I belong!”

What makes you proud to work for Mitie?

“The people – I meet new people every day and they are nearly always lovely!”

How have you been recognised and rewarded for your work?

“In 2021 I got Employee of the Month for going above and beyond and for my performance in the role. I was so proud – I was buzzing!”

What advice would you give to others embarking on a career with Mitie?

“I would say you only get one life – grab the opportunity with both hands. It’s the best opportunity ever. It has worked so well for me!”

Jeffery is just one of thousands of dedicated Mitie colleagues, each inspired and enabled to achieve their potential. By combining innovation with intelligence and applying the power of technology, we’re supporting our people to proudly make a difference, every single day.

Interested in working at Mitie?

Interested in working at Mitie? We have roles available across the organisation. Explore our Careers website to find out more and apply for a role.

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