It was clear from the beginning that she was a quiet soul, and Employment Consultant Kellie began working towards gaining Melissa's trust.
Kellie worked with Melissa to create vocational goals, starting by suggesting a course to upskill when she learnt Melissa had no employment history.
Willing to try study, Melissa decided on an online course and soon began a Certificate II in retail online through Leap Training (now known as ALFFIE).
Melissa finished the course in March 2015, with Kellie providing her one-on-one support on a weekly basis.
The two began to work towards a retail employment goal. By this point, Melissa's confidence had grown and her commitment to progressing grew stronger.
A couple of months later in June 2015, Melissa relocated to APM Elizabeth, where she adapted well to her new office and her new Employment Consultant Tracy.
Tracy immediately identified a career goal with Melissa and set to work marketing her to suitable local employers, offering APM's full support to ensure Melissa's transition to employment was a smooth process.
In October, Tracy negotiated a placement with Foodworks Salisbury North, which would allow APM to assist on a one-on-one basis every week for eight hours initially, and gradually reducing over time as her skills grew.
This was done to give Melissa the best chance of overcoming her barriers.
Tracy negotiated set hours to give Melissa consistency and structure and she commenced work with confidence and a fantastic attitude!
Throughout her period of 26 weeks of employment both Tracy and Kellie supported Melissa through her ups and downs and watched with delight the growth in Melissa's ability to work independently.
Melissa is doing exceptionally well and loving the confidence that comes with employment.
Kellie and Tracy are thrilled with her development and proud to have been a part of her journey!