After experiencing a traumatic brain injury, Kellie, has been out of the workforce for over three years. Kellie is a parent to a primary school aged child and was needing to return to work to support her family.
Due to Kellie’s caring responsibilities, she wanted to find work during school hours and was hoping to enter the Childcare industry. Despite her best efforts, applying for many positions independently, Kellie was unsuccessful in securing a position.
Kellie was becoming frustrated with the whole process and decided to connect with atWork Australia’s Disability Employment Services team in Clyde North, VIC, for tailored support on her employment journey.
Kellie began working with her Job Coach, Donna. Together they continued pursuing opportunities within the Childcare industry. Donna was supporting Kellie to submit her applications and preparing for interviews. However, she could not make it past the interview stage and the constant setbacks were further impacting her mental health concerns.
Donna could see the setbacks were affecting Kellie and she was becoming very low. Given Kellie’s situation, she decided it was time to broaden the scope of employment and consider other alternatives.
Donna mentioned that she knew a local employer who provided domestic cleaning services and asked if Kellie would consider working as a Cleaner. Donna advised this could be a good starting point as she would not be required to gain any new qualifications. Kellie agreed and said she would be happy to give it a go.
With Kellie on board, Donna reached out to the employer and arranged a work trial.
After the trial, the employer offered Kellie the job. Kellie had a few small stumbles in the beginning, but with the support of her In-Work Support Coach, Lauren, Kellie has now found her feet and has become a reliable and valuable member of the team.
“Kellie is now a different person when she comes to visit us at the office. She is so confident within herself. She is very proud of what she has achieved over the past few months,” said Lauren.
Employment has had an incredible impact on Kellie’s life. She has a sense of purpose in her day, she feels more independent having her own money and she feels less socially isolated.
Most importantly, Kellie loves that she can now treat her daughter on occasions.
“Someone has finally given me an opportunity to prove I am capable and worthy of working. My boss always passes on positive feedback to me and has been really supportive,” said Kellie.
Every year, atWork Australia help thousands of clients like Kellie 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.
