A father with six children was forced to live in his car after his beloved wife passed away. He recently shared his difficulties and how he worked hard to improve his life. Geoff Carter faced financial problems and unemployment after his wife’s death, leaving him with no option but to live in his car.
After losing everything and reaching rock bottom, Mr. Carter, a resident of Kitts Green, found it difficult to envision a path out. The situation has substantially improved, though, and he has a position on the HS2 rail project.
When his life was falling apart, he admits that getting to this point seemed uncertain. He claims, “I can proudly say that I have transformed from living in a car, struggling to afford fuel, to being employed long-term as a skilled and qualified labourer on an amazing project.”
Determined to rebuild his life, the father decided to seize an opportunity and joined a training program funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA). This initiative enabled him to secure a job with HS2 and get his life back on track in multiple ways.
Recalling his experience, Mr. Carter said, “During the 12 months I relied on Universal Credit, finding work was a constant struggle until my coach at the Department for Work and Pensions recommended training courses in the area that could directly lead to employment. Ever since then, I haven’t looked back.”
He further added, “My children have now witnessed firsthand what’s achievable in life when given the right opportunity.” Mr. Carter’s efforts were recognized at the inaugural Adult Learning Awards ceremony, where he received an honor. The event was hosted by Nicholas Bailey, a Birmingham-born actor and former EastEnders star.
Expressing his gratitude upon receiving the award, Mr. Carter, who received training from RMF Group, said, “You have to take that first step, be courageous, believe in yourself, and know what to do when life closes a door on you – knock on another one and keep going. My wife, Nat, loved a poem that ended with the line ‘when you’re hardest hit, you still never quit,’ and I still live by that message today.”
West Midlands Mayor Andy Street, who leads the WMCA, praised Mr. Carter’s resilience and emphasized the significance of WMCA-funded courses in transforming lives. He said, “Despite facing personal challenges, he has turned his life around for the better.
He seized the opportunity to learn new skills through WMCA-funded courses, regained his confidence, and provided for his family as a qualified laborer. Geoff’s story demonstrates his determination and highlights the importance of the work carried out by WMCA in funding various courses throughout our region.
Together, we are creating opportunities for local individuals to secure meaningful employment, opening up new possibilities for them and their families in the months and years ahead.”
