After a year of searching for suitable work, determined job seeker Michael McCarthy found a rewarding and supportive role.
Joining the Coffee Club Carousel team in Perth, Michael has now passed six months in the role where he is a hit with regular customers.
Michael came to APM Employment Services as he was struggling to find work due to his partial deafness and autism which lead to difficulties in social environments.
One of the key elements of Michael’s success has been his determination to find work and the support from his employer.
Café owner Emma Miller told Community News how Michael quickly became a valuable member of the team and they had learned a lot from working with him.
"If I can help someone by giving them a start in their career, I’m super happy to do so,” she said.
“We accept everyone with open arms and having Michael here is wonderful for team morale.
“My team is caring, kind and very encouraging and it has taught us a different level of patience, understanding and a greater respect for people.
“I am so super proud of Michael, he is such a fast learner and brings so much joy to the customers. His confidence has grown so much since he started and he has come out of his shell and goes out of his comfort zone every shift.”
- If you’re living with an injury, illness or disability, register with APM and we’ll be in touch to see if you’re eligible for one of our programs.
- If you’re an employer looking for reliable and supported staff, email our Employment Services team or contact your local APM office to see how we can help.
Read more from Perth Now.
Support brews for Michael
AFTER numerous interviews and job trials, Michael McCarthy was struggling to land a job.
With partial deafness, autism and difficulties with social situations, Michael needed an empathetic employer.
Determined not to give up, Michael spent a year hunting for the right job and with the help of a Victoria Park disability employment agency and has just clocked up six months working at the Coffee Club Carousel.
Coffee Club Carousel owner Emma Miller said everyone deserved a chance and Michael had quickly become one of the family.
“If I can help someone by giving them a start in their career, I’m super happy to do so,” she said.
“We accept everyone with open arms and having Michael here is wonderful for team morale.
“My team is caring, kind and very encouraging and it has taught us a different level of patience, understanding and a greater respect for people.
“I am so super proud of Michael, he is such a fast learner and brings so much joy to the customers. His confidence has grown so much since he started and he has come out of his shell and goes out of his comfort zone every shift.”
Michael said while it had been difficult to adjust to the noise of working in a cafe, he was enjoying working in hospitality.
“My favourite parts of the job are serving customers, doing the dishes and clearing the tables,” he said.
“Having a job has made me understand what it is like to work for someone and being responsible.”
Michael said he hoped to work at the Coffee Club for many years to come.
APM Victoria Park employment consultant David Ciputra said helping Michael was a highlight of his career.