Register for APM Disability Employment Services
When it comes to overcoming challenges, Ruth is someone who never gives up.
This determined and positive outlook led Ruth to APM Employment Services for support in learning new skills and boosting her chances of finding a valuable job.
“I got frustrated being home all the time,” Ruth says. And she means it.
Instead of staying home Ruth visited her local APM team where she made use of the site’s computers to upgrade her own skills and employment search. Ruth has battled breast cancer and lives with a heart condition and Crohn’s disease.
Eligible for support through Disability Employment Services, Ruth, 62, took up the opportunity to try something new.
Her goal is to find a job as a support worker helping others in the community and she has been completing training courses while also learning to use a computer with the help of her friend employment services team.
“I’m looking forward to after I’ve finished my course and getting into home help,” Ruth said.
A new chapter
Ruth passionately advocates for employers to have more openness to employing older Australians.
“I think employers should be more open to older people getting a job, once you turn around 55, it’s very hard to get a job” she said.
Ruth has been supported the whole way on her journey so far by members of her local APM team.
They’ve helped build her self-confidence, helping her find skill building training and a Certificate III in independent support.
When Ruth first approached APM, Business Manager Janelle saw the first step was to build up her confidence.
“She’s a genuine kind person who likes to help people, we could see that in her, but she wasn’t quite job ready, she wasn’t confident enough,” Janelle says.
Despite having never used a computer before, Janelle said Ruth took on the opportunity enthusiastically.
On the path to success
Since starting her studies online, Ruth’s gained confidence and has no trouble asking for help when she needs it.
“If I get in any trouble with my computer I only have to ask, and they’ll come and help me,” Ruth says.
Studying online was something she didn’t think she’d do, and when Ruth completed her first semester, the APM team were there to celebrate with her.
“They said we’ll be here for you, and they have, it’s been fantastic” she said.
“I look forward to every Wednesday, coming down here and getting on my computer and doing my course.”
Her weekly routine, the stimulation of study in a supportive environment have boosted her confidence and given her the best possible start to her next employment journey.
Gaining access to training opportunities is just part of the Disability Employment Services program participants receive.
Each eligible person who joins the program gains a personalised job plan to help them become job-ready before searching for suitable employment.
With the dedication and commitment Ruth has given her job plan and the learning available, the APM team can’t wait to see where Ruth succeeds next.