Client Journey – Tariq

Client Journey – Tariq *

Action West London, in partnership with the Ministry of Justice, helps 18–24-year-olds from ethnic minority backgrounds in Ealing, Hounslow, Harrow, Barnet, Brent, and Hillingdon who are currently on probation. At 21, Tariq found himself at a turning point. Although he had developed strong communication and people skills working in sales, he faced significant barriers to finding new work due to a criminal conviction and difficulties passing background checks.

Determined not to let his past define his future, Tariq joined our programme seeking stability and a fresh start. From the beginning, he was open about his circumstances, which allowed his Advisor to take a realistic and tailored approach to his job search. Together, they explored roles where his skills would be valued and where his specific restrictions would not be a barrier to success.

Our team supported Tariq with CV development and interview preparation, with a particular focus on identifying opportunities within the community where personal references and local knowledge are highly valued. One of the main challenges Tariq faced was the limited number of roles available to him, which initially affected his confidence. However, through regular one-to-one sessions, he was encouraged to focus on his strengths: his reliability, his communication skills, and his positive standing in his local area.

As a result of this targeted support and his own determination, Tariq successfully secured work as a Tutor at his local mosque. This role allows him to give back to his community while building professional experience and a steady routine in a trusted environment. Securing this position has had a massive impact on his self-esteem and his outlook on the future.

Reflecting on his progress, Tariq said:

“This opportunity means a lot to me. It’s helped me rebuild my confidence and show that I can be trusted and make a positive contribution.”

His Advisor added:

“Tariq has worked hard to overcome barriers and stay focused on realistic opportunities. Securing this role shows his commitment to moving forward in a positive way.”

Looking ahead, Tariq hopes to continue developing his skills as a tutor and gain further qualifications. His story is a powerful example of how resilience, community support, and tailored guidance can lead to a successful new beginning.

Well done, Tariq !

*Name changed to protect privacy