Even when faced with adversity and uncertain times with COVID-19, 30-year-old Rhys never gave up on finding work and with the help of atWork Australia, Rhys secured full time employment with a local welding products wholesaler.
From Butler in Western Australia, Rhys suffered a lower limb injury in 2018 which left him unable to work. After multiple surgeries and physiotherapy, Rhys was finally cleared to commence looking for suitable employment.
Rhys joined atWork Australia’s Clarkson office in September 2019, and met Hannah, his Disability Employment Services Job Coach. Together, they started working on Rhys’ career goals and building his confidence and self-belief.
Rhys attended his appointments regularly and took on board all information provided. Rhys was motivated and willing to give anything a go.
To further support Rhys on his journey to employment, he was referred to Trish, atWork Australia’s Employment Engagement Consultant (EEC), to assist him with finding good lasting work. To increase Rhys’ employment options, atWork Australia also assisted Rhys in gaining his forklift driver’s licence.
At first, Rhys was offered employment with a local bakery, however, after just 3 short weeks working unfortunately the employer had to cease his employment through no fault of his own. Due to an unforeseen closure of the business, they could no longer offer Rhys any work. Rhys received a fantastic reference from the employer and Rhys was straight back in the office requesting appointments with his Job Coach, Hannah.
A new opportunity arose with another local employer, a succulent nursery, with Rhys securing a work trial after only 1 hour of meeting him. After Rhys completed his work trial, the employer called to advise that he showed fantastic work ethic and that he was willing to take him on and train him.
Once again Rhys worked in this new role for another 3 weeks however, again through no fault of his own, was unfortunately let go due to the COVID-19 crisis. Despite these setbacks, the local atWork Australia team were focused on helping Rhys to find sustainable work and quickly snapped into action to reverse market Rhys to as many potential employers who are still hiring during this time.
As the employment landscape continued to change due to the COVID-19 situation – Rhys, Trish and Hannah were remaining optimistic that many employers were still recruiting during this time.
Both Trish and Hannah came across a suitable job vacancy, and immediately contacted the business owner, Alan, who successfully runs Torchmaster, a leading importer and wholesaler of high-quality welding equipment, consumables and accessories, located in Wangara WA.
Collectively, Alan along with Trish and Hannah discussed the business’ requirements with Alan providing an insight into what he was exactly looking for in an employee.
Rhys was the perfect person for the job, and they managed to secure Rhys an interview. Within the hour, Rhys was eagerly at the local business ready to meet his prospective employer.
Alan was so pleased with Rhys that he offered him employment, commencing the very next day as their new Warehouse Storeperson.
Rhys was initially employed on a casual part time basis, but Alan was so impressed with Rhys’ on-the-job performance and attitude, he was then offered full-time hours.
“Rhys tackles all work given to him and it is a pleasure to have him as a member of our team,” said Alan.
Both Hannah and Trish are delighted with Rhys’ newfound success in his job role, and positive outlook on the future.
“Great things come from hard work and perseverance, and Rhys has demonstrated this throughout his journey to employment. We are very proud of him,” said Job Coach Hannah.
“We love being able to support clients into something they love and help them fulfil their lives,” said Trish.
She adds “there are still jobs out there, and we have great candidates ready to start as soon as employers need them.”