At 51, Craig has lived with a mental health condition for his entire life and his work life has often been affected.
From Charlestown in the Hunter Valley region of NSW, Craig’s ongoing anxiety and bipolar disorder often affected his motivation and drive in finding employment. He also doesn’t manage well when given last minute changes or tasks. On his good days, he was highly motivated but at other times he felt helpless.
In 2019, Craig found his way to his local atWork Australia office looking for the support he needed to find sustainable employment. He was introduced firstly to Service Manager, Kaila and then to Job Coach, Kelly. Together they worked on Craig’s confidence to help him feel less anxious when taking on new tasks and meeting new people.
Craig had some work experience in a range of roles from driving, to support worker and had more recently gained experience as a trolley collector. Kelly thought this would be a great place to start as Craig had the experience, he just needed to believe in himself and his abilities.
“I worked closely with Craig to build a good rapport and gain his trust and slowly over time, he has opened up to me and became more confident and outgoing,” Kelly says.
She helped Craig develop a tailored resume and customised cover letters for jobs, they practiced interview skills and how to prepare for upcoming interviews to reduce his anxiety and make the process less stressful.
Craig was also supported by Employer Engagement Consultant, Roger, who found Craig a position as a trolley collector through a local business who often relies on the services of atWork Australia.
Craig was incredibly happy when told he now had a casual position, doing something he enjoyed, and was over the moon when atWork Australia assisted him further with new work clothes and fuel vouchers to help him get started.
“I am so happy I had help from atWork Australia to gain employment. Now I don’t have to worry about money, it all seems like a dream,” says Craig.
He adds, “The assistance and support from day one has really helped me gain and stay in employment. I would not be where I am today if it wasn’t for Kelly, Kaila and Roger, thank you.”
Every year, atWork Australia helps thousands of clients like Craig 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.