Debbie always wanted a job helping people. She’s now an Assistant in Nursing in an Aged Care residential facility, just 10 minutes from her home in Mackay.
She regularly visits the Community Solutions office in Mackay to check in with the teams that gave her the right support to find the right job. She smiles from ear to ear when she sees them, but it wasn’t always this way.
Six years ago, Debbie was too ill to work. When her health improved, she was referred to Community Solutions Disability Employment Services (DES).
“I saw Kylie from the DES team for three years,” said Debbie. “I was a bundle of anxiety all the time and she’d always have tissues waiting for me.”
Together, Kylie and Debbie identified the kind of job she wanted.
“I wanted to work in something medical, to work with people, and to help them, “said Debbie.
The timing of the conversation couldn’t have been better. Kylie let Debbie know there was a course starting through Community Solutions Skilling Queenslanders for Work (SQW) program to gain a Certificate III in Individual Support.
Kylie referred Debbie to the program and there she met Sarah, the next Community Solutions team member to help her on her journey. Sarah is the Project Officer for the SQW Community Careers Program.
The Community Careers program gives participants like Debbie extra support while they’re completing their qualification.
Debbie received ‘soft skills’ training such as help with her resume, interview training and applying for jobs. She was also able to take part in workshops like Mental Health training, Stroke Safe and Suicide Prevention training, all vital to working in the care industry.
Debbie didn’t just finish her training with a qualification, she built her confidence and her skills to improve her chances of getting a job.
Sarah is there from beginning to end during the course, a friend to laugh with, a shoulder to cry on and when needed, provides extra motivation.
“Sarah is amazing the way she supports everyone, “said Debbie. She’s always got time for you, and a kick up the butt when you need it.”
“Everyone in the course was so supportive. The group kept each other motivated. It was an amazing environment to be in and achieve. I finished with so many new friends.”
On the day Debbie went for her interview, she didn’t expect to hear back for a few days. Four hours later she got the call – she had the job!
“I called Kylie and Sarah straight away to tell them, “said Debbie.
“They’re just so awesome and I appreciate their help so much. And no more tears now.”
As a DES customer, Debbie continues to get support from Community Solutions while employed.
Debbie is grateful to have employment at a time when many people are losing their jobs due to COVID-19.
“I continue to get up and go to work every single day to make a difference and bring a smile to the residents,” said Debbie.
“With the ongoing support provided by Community Solutions I’m surrounded by a great support network. They help me to make sure I am taking care and not getting burnt out.”
Debbie received the right support from Community Solutions to find the right job and we can help you too. Find out more about our Disability Employment Services and Skilling Queenslanders for Work programs.
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