I won’t lie — I’ve thought a lot lately about what “work” even means anymore.

For some people, it’s a job that just about pays the bills (if that). For others, it’s zero hours, no sick pay, always waiting for a shift that might not come. And then there are those of us who haven’t been able to work for a while — because of illness, trauma, grief, or life just collapsing underneath us.

There’s a kind of quiet shame that creeps in when you’re not “working” in the traditional sense. Society doesn’t always recognise the weight of what you’re carrying. But I see you. And if you’re feeling that pressure — to return, to cope, to “bounce back” — I just want to say: you’re not on your own.

Redefining what “work” looks like

Work isn’t just what shows up on a payslip. It’s:
– Getting through the day when your mental health is in pieces
– Caring for family, neighbours, or even yourself
– Volunteering, helping out, showing up for someone
– Just surviving — and that *is* work when things are tough

Sometimes, just brushing your teeth and answering one email is a win. That might not sound like much, but in uncertain times, it matters.

Finding paid work — when everything feels uncertain

If you *are* looking for work in Coventry, here are a few places to start that actually get it:

– Grapevine Coventry & Warwickshire – supports people who’ve experienced trauma, mental health struggles, or life setbacks
– Jobcentre Plus – some advisors genuinely want to help you find flexible or supported work
– Voluntary Action Coventry – great for volunteering opportunities to rebuild confidence
– Coventry City Council job listings – includes part-time, support roles, and community-based work

And if work isn’t possible for you right now, that’s okay too. You don’t owe anyone an explanation.

What we offer through the Mark Hewitson Foundation

We know that employment isn’t always straightforward. Through the Foundation we help people who are:
– In between work and benefits
– Trying to access therapy or retrain
– Facing impossible choices between working and staying well

If a small grant can help cover the cost of travel to interviews, a DBS check, or your gas and electric while you focus on getting back on your feet — please reach out. You don’t have to “prove” anything. Just be honest. That’s enough.

Apply at https://markhewitsonfoundation.org or message us on Facebook.

Final thought

These are strange, exhausting times. Productivity doesn’t define your worth. Whether you’re in a job, looking for one, or still trying to remember who you are — you matter.

Working looks different for everyone. And no matter where you’re at, you’re doing better than you think x