Steven’s story proves that it is never too late to make changes in your life. At sixty years of age and unemployed for twelve years, Steven had quite a negative outlook on both work and life. Now, Steven walks in to the atWork Australia office, sharing stories with a bright smile across his face.
When Steven came to atWork Australia’s office in St Marys, NSW, for support from the Disability Employment Services team, he was managing multiple barriers to employment. Steven had a limited physical ability; he was dealing with arthritis and had significant injuries to his hip and ankles. Steven was also caring for his wife, who was managing her own health concerns. In addition, Steven’s vehicle, and only form of transport, was on its last legs, and he was experiencing financial hardship.
Not long after coming to atWork Australia, Steven secured a new position as a Cleaner at Master Cleaners, working four to five days a week. Now, Steven is working and he has progressed to the In-Work Support phase of his journey with atWork Australia; supported by his In-Work Support Coach, Amy. With Amy’s support, Steven is on his way towards achieving his one year milestone in employment. Amy has been supporting Steven throughout his employment for several months. Steven has difficulty operating technology and needed support with accessing emails, pay slips and submitting his time sheets. Amy invited Steven into the office every Friday so she could assist him to upload his time sheets and access his emails. Amy also taught Steven how to read his pay slips so he could have a clear understanding of what he was earning. Due to Amy’s consistency and patience while providing support to Steven, she has noticed a significant shift in his attitude, happiness and can see that Steven is really enjoying working at Master Cleaners.
The consistent employment has meant Steven has been able to start living life the way he wants to live. He was able to upgrade his vehicle and took his wife out to dinner to celebrate their anniversary. Amy said, “Steven has come such a long way on his journey with atWork Australia, he no longer stresses about the small things he once worried about.”
Steven continues to go from strength to strength in his current employment. His hard work and passion is being recognised by his employer, last month he won employee of the month. Steven said, “I am very grateful for the support from atWork Australia. I am much happier and more confident in my ability to work independently. I look forward to seeing what the future brings.”
Steven’s story shows the impact employment can have on a person’s life. Returning to work has also helped relieve some of the pain caused by his health condition. Steven continues to pursue his goals in life and is in the process of moving to Queensland to be closer to family.
“atWork Australia helped me so much and made my life so much better.” – Steven, atWork Australia Client.
Every year, atWork Australia help thousands of clients like Steven, 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