Lisa McKenna, 37, says her life was turned around when she started work as an apprentice electrician with Halton Housing Trust.

The mum of three, from Woodridge in Windmill Hill, began her apprenticeship a year ago after finding support from Halton Borough Council’s Halton People into Jobs. 

She said: “Getting back to work has changed my life for the better. I love my job.

“I’ve always tried to be a positive role model for my children and look to improve myself. Getting back to work has given me the chance to do that.”

Lisa gave up her office job with social services for almost two years to spend time looking after her children following a divorce.

In a bid to find a new career she decided to build on her passion for DIY and take an electrical and plumbing access course at Riverside College, Widnes. She was then able to work with the Halton People into Jobs find suitable employment.

She says she understands how difficult it can be for single mothers to return to employment.

“Women who become single mums all of a sudden are left wondering what to do,” she said.

“It’s important that women know there are ways to get back to work. There are plenty of women my age training at college and looking for new careers. People can find a new life and a fresh start.

“It also sets a great example. What I have done has encouraged my children to find jobs and go to college.”

Lisa is now being used as an inspirational character for a DVD that was filmed at the Stobart Stadium in Widnes.

The DVD will be used by the Liverpool City Region Employment and Skills

strategy, a project funded by the Department for Work and Pensions that is aimed at helping people back to work. It is led by the six councils within Merseyside - Halton, Wirral, Liverpool, Sefton, St Helens and Knowsley.

Gerry Fitzpatrick, Head of Enterprise and Employment for Halton Borough Council, said: “The People into Jobs scheme is all about offering help and support to people like Lisa who want to work.

“Lisa is a great example of what we are trying to achieve.”

Noel Sharpe, Director of Customer Services for Halton Housing Trust, said the trust was delighted to offer anyone a second chance of a career.

“Lisa’s story is all about her great aptitude and attitude. We are delighted to see her flourishing in her new role.”