Not every jobseeker completes an outcome with their first placement, which is why the continued partnership with their consultant is so important, both in post-placement support, and to recommence job search if a position is not continued.
Tabetha Lord was a participant at our Wetherill Park DES site. Struggling for years with barriers associated with significant mental illness, Tabetha developed a strong, trusting partnership with our Fairfield ESA consultant, Joan Obuchowski. Tabetha’s medication regime caused lethargy and drowsiness, but ceasing her medication led to an aggravation of her various mental illnesses.
Because of this difficult balance, Tabetha had secured, but then exited from seven different jobs. These roles included kitchen hands, bar attendant, receptionist, administration and process work. Throughout this time, Tabetha continued to receive OCTEC’s support and Joan was there to provide post-placement support and assistance with job search, reassuring Tabetha that each role equipped her with skills and experience that would be transferrable to other workplaces.
In July 2022, and with Joan’s assistance, Tabetha commenced a role as an Out of School Hours Care Assistant, while also receiving offers of additional work from two childcare employers. In addition to ongoing consultant support for Tabetha, OCTEC also provided more than $600 to cover work-related expenses.
Tabetha’s story highlights the difference a strong participant – consultant relationship can make, both to secure employment, but also to re-engage in the job search process in circumstances where job placements do not work out. It’s an example how positive and ongoing assistance can make all the difference to the lives of our jobseekers.