Register for APM Disability Employment Services
From shy beginnings, Christine has become a role model of resilience.
When an ankle injury changed her life, Christine admits she came close to throwing in the towel.
Today, she is the person her employer calls to encourage other new employees.
Christine openly talks about her early struggles “I was down in a very hard spot for a while there. I could’ve gone either way but no-one was letting me give in.”
Previously, Christine worked as a regional forklift drive when she suffered a crush injury to her right ankle; the required surgery set her ankle in a fixed position leaving her with extremely limited movement.
Accustomed to being a hard worker, then becoming unable to fully bear weight on her foot, the resulting period of years out of the workforce had a big impact on Christine’s confidence and mental health.
Understanding her new requirements
APM supported Christine with her ankle injury and learning disability to integrate back into working life and a new industry.
Her dedicated Employment Consultant was right by her side as she negotiated some personal struggles, to construct her resume, build her confidence and work on some job interview techniques.
Now working as a Housekeeper, she is quoted by her employer Lorna as “one of the stars of the hotel at the moment”
Since finding Christine a role which enables her to work within her capabilities, she has grown to work independently with greater confidence.
And Lorna has noticed these changes
"Since I met Christine, she is now a completely a different person. She’s got courage, personality, confidence, she’s very well presented. She’s was a bit shy to start with and she wasn't sure if she could make it, but with encouragement she is now a team player" she said.
Nothing's going to stop her
Even something as small as a foot brace to support Christine at work has made a huge difference to her well-being.
“The girls have helped me out that much and I appreciate everything they’ve done for me” said Christine
Christine admits it was a big adjustment getting back into work, and finding a routine
I nearly threw everything in at the start, my feet were bleeding because I hadn’t worn shoes in six years" she recalls "no-one let me give up and so I didn’t. I persevered and I’ve almost been here a year now."
Throughout her professional development journey from timid new starter to Housekeeping role-model, Christine also managed to lose over 20kg!
After being resilient through several huge changes in her life, Christine has become more positive about the future since securing her role
“I feel positive about the future and nothing is going to stop me, I’ll make sure of it!”
If you, or someone you know needs support to re-enter the workplace, our Employment Consultants can help
Register below to find out if you’re eligible to for our Disability Employment Services program or one of our support programs, to start your journey.