Building a New Life in Ireland – Ahmed’s Story

Ahmed’s story shows the challenges many migrants face on arrival in Ireland, and how tailored SICAP supports, from language learning to employment guidance, can help people rebuild confidence and move forward.

Ahmed first came into contact with SICAP staff through Limerick City Partnership’s weekly Conversation Club, a welcoming space where people from different backgrounds can practise English, meet new people and build confidence. Having recently arrived in Ireland under the Afghan Admissions Programme, Ahmed had very limited English and found everyday tasks, such as speaking to people and completing forms, extremely challenging. Despite these barriers, he was highly motivated to improve his English, find employment and build an independent life in Ireland.

Ahmed shared that he had previously worked in a hospital and hoped to return to the healthcare sector. SICAP staff referred him to a guidance counsellor with the local Education and Training Board who specialises in supporting migrants. Alongside this, SICAP staff worked with Ahmed on a one-to-one basis to enrol him in English classes, prepare a CV and cover letter, practise interview skills and begin applying for jobs.

At the same time, Ahmed was experiencing significant financial hardship and was initially unable to access social welfare payments due to his residency status. SICAP staff supported him to apply for Supplementary Welfare Allowance and assisted him with an appeal when his application was refused. The financial pressure caused significant stress and negatively affected Ahmed’s mental health and wellbeing.

Recognising the impact this was having on Ahmed, SICAP staff supported him to apply for a Medical Card and assisted with the necessary paperwork. He was also linked with a local counsellor who provided free counselling sessions, offering support with his mental health and past trauma. To reduce isolation and improve his wellbeing, Ahmed was encouraged to participate in a health and wellbeing programme delivered by Limerick City Partnership. Through the programme, he tried a new sport, learned new skills, met new people and grew in confidence. One of his proudest achievements was cycling 20 kilometres after only recently learning how to cycle.

As Ahmed continued attending the Conversation Club and English classes at a local college, his language skills and confidence steadily improved. SICAP staff continued to support him with job applications and interview preparation. Ahmed gained the confidence to approach a local restaurant manager directly about employment opportunities. When he initially did not hear back, SICAP staff encouraged him to follow up in person. This proved successful, and Ahmed was offered a part-time position.

Before starting work, Ahmed needed to complete online training. Due to language barriers and limited computer skills, this presented another challenge. SICAP staff supported him through the training, and Ahmed successfully completed it and began working part time in the restaurant.

Reflecting on the support he received, Ahmed shared:

Thank you for always being here to help me

Ahmed

Six months later, Ahmed returned to Limerick City Partnership after learning that his landlord was selling his apartment. Facing renewed financial pressure, Ahmed recognised the need to secure full-time employment. SICAP staff supported him to apply for suitable roles, and he was invited to interview for a full-time Catering Assistant position in a local healthcare setting. The role was a strong fit for his previous healthcare experience and recent catering experience. With continued interview preparation support from SICAP staff, Ahmed successfully secured the job.

Ahmed is now working full time, has built strong social connections and continues to improve his English. His story demonstrates how ongoing, person-centred SICAP support can help people overcome multiple barriers, build confidence and achieve sustainable employment.

This case study demonstrates the importance of holistic, person-centred SICAP support. Through consistent one-to-one engagement and partnership working, Ahmed was empowered to overcome challenges, improve his wellbeing, develop his skills and take meaningful steps towards greater independence and a more secure future.