Back to work thanks to the MOB

In Leudal, everyone should be able to participate. Also when it comes to work and income. The MensOntwikkelBedrijf (MOB) guides vulnerable residents and those entitled to benefits into suitable work. The MOB is now so well known in Leudal that people offer it as a solution when they are in danger of getting stuck with their employer.

Sven Stienen worked for eight years as an executive inspector at a technical company in the municipality of Peel en Maas. 

However, due to my chronic lung problems, I was no longer able to do this work. I was therefore given office work at the company's administrative office. This caused me a lot of stress. It ultimately led to my burnout. Then, due to a company relocation, it was no longer possible for me to return to my employer. In January 2020, I decided to move to Heythuysen so that my son would not have to travel as far to his school in Belgium. As a benefit recipient, I was able to participate in various work placements through MOB Leudal to explore my options. I seized that opportunity with both hands. I also want to do something to earn my money. For example, I worked as a driver collecting waste. I was also able to do various technical and other tasks in the new MOB building in Heythuysen. I installed fencing and built wooden Christmas trees and owl boxes.

Really something for me

Until I was made aware of the vacancy for the Energy Saving Brigade Leudal's Handyman Bus. That was really something for me. I was allowed to furnish the bus myself, and now I'm inundated with jobs that I can do at people's homes. People are always happy when I visit, usually with one of my colleagues. Because they get help and also save energy. And I'm busy all day instead of sitting at home bored. At first, I worked through an employment contract with Westrom. In February, I got a contract for 32 hours a week with the municipality of Leudal itself.
The MOB really adds value for people like me. They also give status holders the opportunity to see how things work here, and then those people also have something to do while they learn things, such as the language. Learning to speak the language is important, but I see that this happens very quickly when you are among people. If you want to work, there is always suitable work to be found. I am very happy that I can now work without stress and do technical jobs. I have a lot of social contact and people are always happy when I can do something for them. When that happens, my day is good again.