Employment is a powerful tool. It helps to improve the welfare of individuals, families and communities. Put simply, people are generally better off when they’re working. They can pay their bills, support their loved ones and enjoy a sense of contribution to their community. Meaningful work is essential to the wellbeing of nearly everyone.
Shepparton-based Jacob, 27, has been unemployed for eight years and reached the point where he was “ready to throw in the towel” as he did not believe anyone would hire him.
Jacob lives with Congenital Scoliosis which causes constant back pain. He is dyslexic and lives with depression and anxiety, gets nervous talking to people and has low confidence.
Education and work experiences have been important for Jacob but unfortunately they did not lead to sustainable work. Jacob has studied and completed many different courses including Certificate III in Hospitality, Certificate III in Civil Construction, Certificate III in Rural Operations and he also obtained a Chemical Handling Certification. In the past, Jacob has worked on a farm and in hospitality. He had applied for many jobs and rarely received any replies which caused him uncertainty about his future. Jacob does not have a driver’s license and believes that this might have been a barrier towards gaining employment as well.
At the atWork Australia Shepparton office, Jacob was introduced to his Job Coach Brad who tried to reassure him that he will be able to find the right employer for him. Brad passed on Jacob’s resume to local employers with the goal of finding Jacob a labouring position.
Jacob was very excited, and happy when he found out that he has been offered a job as a cleaner at market meats. He couldn’t believe it at first and was ecstatic once it had all sunk in and he realised that he had a job.
He says: “I am happy to be working at a very supportive workplace with good people and a good environment. I am looking forward to going to work every day. I am proud that I am working and that I can afford to pay for more things for my partner and my family.”
Jacob said that in about 10 years of being with employment providers, Brad has been the only one to help him into employment. He adds that Brad was always encouraging and supportive, and didn’t give up on him.
Brad says: “Jacob has come a long way. He was convinced that no one would hire him. It is great to see that his confidence has grown, now that he is employed and that he is starting to believe in himself. It is great to see him work in a supportive workplace with a supporting and understanding employer.”
Every year, atWork Australia helps thousands of clients like Jacob expand their skills and qualifications to help them gain the right job with the right employer. Call us today on 1300 080 856 or enquire online to find out how we can help you meet your career goals.
