Young Ukrainian lands job at EE thanks to DWP support

A young Ukrainian refugee has landed her first permanent job in the UK thanks to support from the DWP.

Tetiana Dokalenko was forced to flee her home in Odessa due to the Russian invasion, leaving her family behind before landing in Devon alone in June.

The 23-year-old claimed Universal Credit when she first arrived in the UK but was keen to start work straight away.

Government support means she now has a full-time job in customer service at EE in Plymouth.

Tetiana’s local Jobcentre in Plymouth worked closely with her to establish the types of work she was able to do as well as preparing her for interviews.  

Employer Adviser, Lisa Farmer, and Work Coach, Megan Broughton, helped Tetiana get job-ready and land the role with EE who were impressed with her attitude and approach.

Reflecting on her journey to-date, Tetiana said: “Since moving to the UK, settling into my role at EE has been super easy. We have a flexible and friendly team with great leaders who made sure I had the support to make the transition straight forward.

“I’m grateful to everyone who has helped me make Plymouth a home, including Jobcentre Plus, and I now feel part of the strong knit community.”

Minister for Employment, Guy Opperman said: “It is brilliant to hear success stories like Tetiana’s as she rebuilds her life in Devon and starts a new chapter with EE.

“Our priority is that people of all ages and backgrounds get the support they need from day one so they can get back into work.

“We also recognise people on low incomes are struggling with rising prices but have taken action, protecting millions with cost-of-living support worth at least £1,200.”

Tetiana helps customers access social tariffs as part of her new role. These are discounted broadband and mobile deals for people on Universal Credit and other benefits.

As part of this, internet service providers – with customers’ permission – can now ask the DWP to automatically verify their benefit entitlement so they can assess if they are entitled to the low-cost deals.

EE recently launched a £12 social tariff for mobile customers – EE basics.

Managing Director Service at EE, Nick Lane added: “People like Tetiana are what makes our customer service team the best in the industry. We’re pleased to support her in joining EE and are so glad she’s settled in as part of our fantastic team in Plymouth. EE is on a mission to deliver personal and brilliant service from our contact centres across the UK and Ireland.”