- Jeff was forced to close his business due to the COVID-19 pandemic
- Shoulder and back pain made it difficult for Jeff to find a new job
- With support and training Jeff is succeeding as a disability support worker
When the impact of COVID-19 forced Jeff to close his business he wanted to find a new job as soon as possible.
But with back and shoulder pain restricting his activities, Jeff found if difficult to find work and was unsure of what employment would work for him.
When he joined the Disability Employment Services program with his local APM team, Jeff was feeling distant and defeated.
“2021 was a very difficult year for me as my own business collapsed and I did not know what I was going to do,” Jeff said.
“My health was the worst problem as my two shoulders and my back were in continuous pain and nothing was able to fix it.”
Senior Employment Consultant Glaiza worked with Jeff to get him back on his feet, manage his health challenges and maintain the motivation to keep searching for work.
They worked together on motivation and strengths-based activities and tasks.
They also looked at alternative roles and industries where Jeff could work.
Jeff said he felt valued, seen, and supported by Glaiza.
“(She) was an angel for me, she took my case personally and when others would give up on me her persistence and encouragement was amazing. Her hard work and commitment in helping me, I can only say thank you now,” he said.
After discussing Jeff’s career goals, they identified a position as a support worker ticked all the boxes.
As well as encouraging and motivating Jeff, Glaiza helped him access pre-employment checks and training.
After completing a first aid course, Jeff was invited to an interview with an employer looking for a support worker to join their team in a casual role.
Jeff excelled in his interview and was offered the job.
Shortly after Jeff was offered a permanent part-time role in a job he loves.
“In less than six months I have become permanent part time at a good hourly rate,” Jeff said.
“This brings me peace and from the bottom of my heart I want to give thanks to APM and special thanks to Glaiza.”
Disability, injury, or health condition and want to work?
You could be eligible for help in finding a suitable job from APM Employment Services.
As Australia’s largest provider of the Disability Employment Services program we help thousands of people with permanent or temporary disabilities, injuries, mental health conditions and other diagnosed barriers which may prevent them finding successful employment.
If you want to find out more, register with us today, or call our team on 1800 276 276 for more information.
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Looking for staff?
We don’t just support job seekers, we also help thousands of employers find reliable staff and access government incentives when hiring new employees.
If you’re an employer, you could access wage subsidies, plus funds for training and workplace modifications when hiring a person with disability for full or part-time work.
Plus, you will be enhancing the diversity of your business while making a real positive difference in a person’s life.
Find out more about this rewarding opportunity for employers by speaking to your nearest APM Employment Services team, or emailing support@apm.net.au.