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Meet Clyde.
After the devastating experience of losing his job, he found it difficult to look for work again.
The sudden loss of regular work and income affected his confidence, and he was living with anxiety and depression.
Unable to make it to the stage of getting a job interview, his support network encouraged him to reach out for help.
The day he walked into APM’s Gosnells office would also be the same day he met the CROWNability team.
And that was the day life started to change for the better.
Always got a smile on his face
Clyde was hired as a Bar Useful at Crown Perth through the CROWNability program.
He’s found his casual working schedule has had beneficial effects in several areas of his life.
Developing a routine, having extra income, and feeling happy and confident when he catches up with people socially have been some of the immediate benefits for him.
His support network saw the positive change in him.
“My friends and family are really happy for me“ Clyde said.
“I feel like I fit in, I’ve got more to talk about than not having a job.”
APM Employer Account Manager Kerrilee recalls meeting Clyde for the first time.
“Straight away I saw he was passionate, and he was a hard worker - he just wanted someone to give him a chance.”
She saw how he’d lost his confidence and got to work updating his resume and organised a meet and greet with Crown Perth for the same day.
A perfect partner for APM Employment Services, the CROWNability program is about ensuring people with disability are given every opportunity to gain employment and build meaningful careers.
Supported by APM, this national initiative provides tailored support for job seekers and managers through measures like job matching and post-placement support.
On a regular shift for Clyde he will be moving around the venue cleaning and stocking Crown’s bars.
He’s a friendly face on the gaming floor as he collects used glassware and bottles, frequently chatting to patrons while he goes about his work.
“I get to work with some really great people and that helps a lot” Clyde said.
Engaging with his colleagues and Crown patrons now comes a lot more easily to him.
“I was more of a closed in person before, now I’m able to talk to people and associate with customers, it’s really nice.”
Supported and thriving at work
Clyde secured his role supported by the Disability Employment Services program, delivered by APM.
APM Employment Services has supported more than 120,000 job seekers with an injury, illness, or disability into work over the last two years.
“With APM’s help it was a lot easier to get opportunities” Clyde said.
Even after successfully getting a job, APM continue to stay in touch with him as part of his post-placement support.
“They look after me.”
“It feels like I’ve got someone who has my back and looks after me” Clyde added.
Businesses who prioritise inclusion in their recruitment practices are enabling better lives for people with injury, illness, or disability.
Giving employees like Clyde the visibility and opportunity to work has wide-reaching benefits.
Kerrilee can see the impact employment has had on Clyde’s life.
“Just the way he presents, he’s always got a smile on his face, the way he carries himself “she observed.
“It’s completely changed his life.”
Building his customer service skills is just one of the ways Clyde is taking steps towards a successful career path.
And he agrees.
“I’m really happy to see what the future holds for me.”