Disability Employment Services client, Biannca was born with complete hearing loss, and she was also living with mental health conditions including anxiety.
When she came to atWork Australia in Moe, Latrobe Valley in Victoria, she was concerned she would have limited opportunities available to her. She worried about finding an employer that would be understanding of her barriers.
With the support of the atWork Australia team, Biannca was successful in obtaining employment in 2021 with an inclusive and supportive employer in a cleaning role.
“This role has given Biannca the opportunity to be self-reliant while also allowing her to manage her mental health through small adjustments,” said In-Work Support Consultant, Sam.
“Biannca is given cleaning roles where she can work alone to manage her anxiety. However, there are also people around on the site to provide her with a chance to interact in a more relaxed way,” said Sam.
The employer also provides her with instructions that are in an easy-to-read format and sends her to locations that are easily accessible.
Although she has been employed for three years, Biannca is still supported by the atWork Australia team in an ongoing support capacity.
The atWork Australia team is on hand to support her in any way she may need to help her maintain her employment.
“Biannca started off in her role needing much more support, but over time she has grown more confident and independent in her role and now only needs flexible support,” said Sam.
Her employer is also flexible with supporting Biannca to take time off work for her health.
It is during these times when atWork Australia’s ongoing support can be helpful.
“At a time when Biannca was particularly struggling and had to take time off to manage her mental health, she had an additional stress related to her finances and ensuring she was able to cover her rent and bills when she wasn’t working,” said Sam.
“Biannca attended appointments with me during this time, and we sat together to walk her through the application process for the Victorian Sick Pay Guarantee application, so that she could take the time she needed and still receive some pay, thereby allowing her to focus on getting her mental health back on track and returning to work in a better place.”
“Biannca has come out of her shell, and her self-belief is growing significantly,” said Sam.
Every year, atWork Australia help thousands of clients like Biannca 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.