Blake's on the road to a brighter future

Blake first came to APM’s North Rockhampton site with a clear goal: to secure employment and gain greater independence.

As an Autistic person, Blake's search for an opportunity with the right employer and a sustainable job had been challenging.

But his previous experience in hospitality and support work, had given him the desire to explore more opportunities to help others as a support worker.

One significant barrier Blake faced was his lack of transportation.

Without a driver’s licence, he struggled to travel between clients’ homes, a necessity for his desired role.

Determined to overcome this, Blake began working towards building his driving hours to obtain his probationary license.

Blake’s employment consultant, Tamiha, played a crucial role in his journey.

She helped Blake build his confidence through mock interviews, updated his resume, and suggested he complete a first aid course to ensure his skills were up to date.

When he was ready to work, Tamiha referred Blake to All Types of Care Queensland for a support worker position. Blake aced the interview and was offered the job.

Starting a new job can be daunting, but with Tamiha’s continued support, Blake navigated initial challenges and gained more confidence.

Within months, Blake proudly shared that he had passed his driving test, achieving the independence he had longed for.

During his ongoing support sessions Blake expressed concerns to his new consultant, Tegan, about managing new clients and remembering their routines.

Tegan encouraged Blake to communicate his worries with his manager, leading to a strategy that gradually increased his client load. It included Blake carrying a notebook to jot down important details.

Blake’s hard work and determination paid off. This year he celebrated his 52-week employment milestone.

His employer’s feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and Blake is now excited to mentor new employees.

Grateful for the support from APM, Blake has set a new personal goal: to save for a deposit to purchase his own home.

Blake’s story is a powerful reminder of the benefits of tailored support through Disability Employment Services.

If you or someone you know has a disability, injury, or health condition and is looking for work, speak to our team about joining Disability Employment Services.

About Disability Employment Services

If you have a disability, injury or health condition, we know that doesn’t define you.

If you’re eligible for Disability Employment Services (DES), speak to APM Employment Services for help finding meaningful and fulfilling employment, and to get you to where you want to be.

Your support is unique to you, your goals, and the type of work you’re interested in. It may include:

• help to prepare for work
• job-specific training
• access to health or other local support services

You’ll also get support to search and apply for jobs.

When you’re ready to work, we’ll help with interviews and meeting local employers too.

When you start work, we may also help with on-the-job training, access to tools, uniforms or assistance with transport costs.

Chat with us today and choose what defines you – including a job you love.

Call 1800 276 276 or click Register now below to get started.