Last year, Cheryl, a resilient cleaning professional with years of experience in the industry, found herself unemployed due to a back injury. Despite the odds stacked against her, Cheryl refused to be defeated. She was determined to find an employer who recognised her skills and valued her contributions.
Cheryl’s journey began with a crucial step: finding the right support.
She discovered this through ETC’s Disability Employment Services (DES) program, designed to assist people with an injury, illness or disability in securing sustainable employment.
ETC has a proven track record of helping people achieve their employment goals. So far, we’ve helped over 105,000 individuals secure employment!
ETC became Cheryl’s lifeline. The local Port Macquarie team provided coaching, mentoring, and practical assistance throughout her job search.
From navigating online applications to understanding the onboarding process, they were there every step of the way. They also provided financial support for fuel and vehicle costs, recognising the real-world challenges Cheryl faced.
After several false starts, Cheryl’s unwavering determination paid off. She found her ideal match with ISS Cleaning Services (ISS).
Cheryl’s ETC Jobs Advisor, Dave Hearne, emphasised that everyone encounters barriers, but it’s about finding creative solutions to overcome these.
“We all have some sort of barrier to work and it’s just a matter of finding a way around that,” said Dave.
For example, during Cheryl’s onboarding process, her physical limitations were addressed strategically.
“By adjusting her work schedule to shorter shifts, Cheryl managed her back injury effectively. We also supported her with appropriate footwear to alleviate discomfort,” added Dave.
After that, everything began to fall into place.
Today, Cheryl is thriving. She’s even taken on extra work in different towns, cleaning up schools and government locations!
No longer dependent on Centrelink, Cheryl said she sees the power of earning her own money and answering to no one.
“I hated being unemployed and felt like people judged me for not working, I’m so glad to be where I am today” shares Cheryl.
“I’m grateful for ETC, they have helped me a lot and didn’t give up on me. Nothing was ever too much trouble for my Jobs Advisor Dave. He was always there for me. Helping me and steering me in the right direction.”
In the beginning, Cheryl’s goal was to earn a bit of extra money to pay off her car loan, which she achieved. However, she’s now set her sights set on a new goal.
She is looking to rent a paddock space to get back into her passion of looking after horses.
Cheryl’s story reminds us that with the right attitude and unwavering support, employment uncertainty can be conquered. ETC didn’t give up on her, and Cheryl’s success is proof that resilience prevails.
Call our friendly DES team on 1800 007 400 or fill out the Enquire Now form on this page.
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