The range of challenges and strengths neurodivergent people live with varies from person to person. Participant Javier lives with autism, PDHD and depression. Challenges such as these result in an unemployment rate for those with autism of more than 30%.
Low confidence and a lack of initiative saw Javier unemployed at 22. As he finished the School Leaver Employment Support (SLES) program with NDIS support agency Interchange, Javier transferred to OCTEC.
He met with Employment Consultant Kelly, at OCTEC Boronia on the north-eastern outskirts of Melbourne. Working together on finalising Javier’s resume, they included his casual work experience from school holiday youth camps as well as soft skills. Kelly worked with Javier on ways to approach employers near his home, given where he lives has limited access to public transport.
They also visited different businesses together. Kelly’s coaching on effective communication helped ease Javier’s nerves, allowing him to engage in conversations with five employers.
Yarra Valley accommodation retreat, Oscars on the Yarra, showed interest in talking to Javier, even though there weren’t any advertised job openings.
Kelly explained Javier’s current situation, as well as OCTEC’s tailored Biz Support packages including the wage subsidies available, to Christine. She quickly got back in touch with Kelly to request a meeting with Javier and his NDIS support worker to learn more about his
needs. She asked to identify the tasks he felt comfortable handling, allowing them to tailor a job that suited both his needs and abilities. Javier was offered a position with general housekeeping, gardening duties and kitchen assistance work.
After successfully gaining the role, Javier continued to receive further support on the job. His NDIS Support Worker helped purchase noise-cancelling headphones, which helped the irritation he felt due to his autism from the sound of scraping dishes. Kelly also worked with OCTEC Regional Manager Lawanya to organise a Biz Support package for Oscars on the Yarra.
Javier has successfully maintained 15 hours of permanent part-time work for almost 26 weeks of employment. Javier’s employer is dedicated to making his experience a positive one. Christine has connected with the Centre for Disability Employment Research and Practice to enhance the employer’s understanding of how to provide the best available support.
Javier has noticed a remarkable transformation in his life. He no longer feels tired and unproductive – enjoying the renewed energy and confidence in his approach to work and outside life. Javier is also contributing to his family’s rent, giving him a sense of responsibility. In his free time, Javier enjoys riding his bicycle along the Warburton Trail with his NDIS Support Worker. He has also enrolled in a night course to study music and pursue his passion for Oscars on the Yarra. Source: The Australian. writing and playing music.
If you live with a disability, illness, or injury and are looking for work, please feel free to reach out to your local employment specialists for assistance.
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