A Queensland job seeker is one-step closer to successful employment after taking part in this year’s AccessAbility Day.
Shayne Smith was invited to do a day of work experience with local construction firm BBC QLD this week.
As a participant in APM’s Disability Employment Services program, Shayne was able to take up an offer of work experience as part the AccessAbility Day scheme.
As reported in the Toowoomba Chronicle this week, Shayne had struggled to find employment because of his learning difficulty.
Working with his local APM Employment Services team, Shayne was able to take up the opportunity to gain valuable insights and experience.
"They asked me if I wanted to do some work experience," Shayne said.
"That was great news and meant I could get out of the house and talk to people. It had been a while since I last worked."
Shayne was put through his with BBC Qld construction, helping them finish a new room in a Highfields health clinic.
"I like taking things apart and helping them move stuff to the bin," he said.
"I'm now studying to get a white card so I can work on other premises. I would love to work (for the company)."
BBC Qld director Damien Weeks said Shayne was the first APM client brought into the business.
"Shayne is probably the most energetic person we have here, he's been very willing and he seems to be enjoying himself," Mr Weeks said.
"He has been helping us do some light prep work on this doctor's surgery which we are stripping and refurbing."
Mr Weeks said they were working on a more permanent position for Shayne within the company.
What is AccessAbility Day?
Supported by the government, AccessAbility Day enables employers to invite job seekers with a disability to join them in the workplace for a day, without any costs or obligations to hire them.
As well as an opportunity to engage with local job seekers and look for potential future employees, the scheme also enables employers to see how accessible and inclusive their workplaces are.
Employers can register with their local APM team to host a job seeker any time from 25 to 29 November.
If you’re an employer and want to know more about offering valuable work experience to a local job seeker at no-cost to you or your business, speak to your local team today.
With more than 500 APM Employment Services teams across Australia, your next new starter could be closer than you think.
Find your nearest APM team here.
Read more about Shayne’s AccessAbility Day success at the Toowoomba Chronicle.