Jack – Finding Freedom: Overcoming Struggles and Embracing Change

In a candid conversation in Lismore, we sit down with Jack, a resilient individual whose life took a transformative turn at TURSA. Jack opened up about his battles with depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, shedding light on his remarkable journey from isolation to finding freedom and purpose from his barriers.

Depression, anxiety and dependency

Before Jack found his way to TURSA, his life was marked by heavy depression, anxiety, and a relentless struggle with drug and alcohol addiction. Forced to move back home due to life’s circumstances, Jack found solace, but it was only upon reaching TURSA that his outlook took an upward turn and he began finding freedom.

A Turning Point

His encounter with Stacy at TURSA became a turning point. Jack vividly recalls the initial meeting having a positive progression in only a few minutes. It laid the foundation for a pathway that met Jack’s needs. The prospect of rehab crossed his mind initially, but after just one week, the transformative experience at TURSA, mainly working at the showgrounds, made him reconsider.

Work for the Dole

Jack’s requirement to undertake Work for the Dole program, marked the beginning of his journey to recovery. Impressively, within eight weeks, Jack’s dedication and strong work ethic not only earned him connections but also opportunities. The president and vice president of the Show Society recognised his potential, leading to an offer to work as the head traffic controller for significant events.

Newfound Interest

Reflecting on his experience, Jack expresses a newfound interest in pursuing a career as a traffic controller. He discusses upcoming courses and potential paths, highlighting the positive impact of the opportunities presented to him.

As Jack narrates his story, it becomes evident that his struggle with anxiety has significantly diminished. Jack was previously unable to make eye contact or construct proper sentences, so he attributes his transformation to stepping out of his comfort zone. The experience at the showgrounds helped overcome much of his public anxiety and build his confidence, allowing him to communicate and work effectively with others.

Staying Aware – A Conscious Effort

Acknowledging the ongoing need for awareness, Jack emphasises the conscious effort required to prevent a regression into past struggles. Despite facing challenges, he finds solace in his work, particularly at the showgrounds, where he thrives in a physical and social environment.

Jack envisions further growth, with Saturdays at the showground providing paid work and the rest of the week dedicated to volunteering. He plans to obtain his RSA and RCG for additional job opportunities. The supportive network at TURSA, and especially from Trev, ensures Jack’s continued involvement in significant events, boosting his confidence and motivation.

Stacy – Jack’s Employment Adviser

In a brief conversation with Stacy, Jack’s Employment Adviser, it becomes clear that Jack’s journey is a testament to the effectiveness of TURSA’s proactive approach.

Stacy highlights Jack’s initial timidness and anxiety, emphasising the positive impact of working collaboratively to overcome barriers. She encourages other individuals like Jack to reach out, they do not have to struggle alone, assuring them that TURSA is here to help, not hinder.

Finding Freedom through Resilience, Support and that First Step

Jack’s story at TURSA exemplifies the power of resilience, support, and the transformative impact of seizing opportunities. His journey sends a powerful message – it’s okay to seek help, and with the proper support, positive change is not only possible but achievable.

Both Stacey and Jack had a message they wanted to share:

Navigating the Employment Journey:

How Job Seekers with Disability can Empower their Job Ability.

Welcome to our site. TURSA supports job seekers managing a disability or health conditions in finding and keeping employment. Managing a disability or health condition while seeking employment can present unique challenges. Still, we are here to help you access opportunities and resources that can support your employment journey.

For additional information on our Disability Support Services CLICK HERE

Employment Ability for Job Seekers Managing a Disability

Despite the challenges, numerous employment opportunities are available for job seekers with a disability or health conditions. Some of the options include the following:

Inclusive Employers:

Many employers seek to hire individuals managing disabilities to help create a diverse and inclusive workforce. These employers understand the benefits that can be achieved such as:

Diverse and Inclusive Workplace: Hiring an employee with a disability can contribute to a diverse and inclusive workplace, which has been shown to improve employee morale, productivity, and creativity.
Access to a Unique Skill Set: Employees with disabilities often develop unique skills and strengths due to navigating their disability, such as problem-solving, adaptability, resilience, and empathy. These skills can be valuable assets to an employer and enhance the team’s overall skill set.
Expanded Talent Pool: By considering candidates with disabilities, employers can tap into a larger talent pool and increase their chances of finding the right fit for their organisation. This can result in a broader range of skills, experiences, and perspectives, enriching the workplace and fostering innovation.
Improved Brand Reputation: Employers who actively support the employment of people with disabilities can enhance their brand reputation and be seen as socially responsible and inclusive. This can result in positive public relations, increased customer loyalty, and improved brand perception in the community. This in turn improves employment sustainability.
Access to Incentives and Wage Subsidies: These financial benefits can offset the costs associated with accommodating disabilities in the workplace and provide additional cost savings.
Increased Employee Retention: Employees with disabilities often demonstrate loyalty and commitment to employers who provide them with opportunities and accommodations. This can lead to increased employee retention and reduced turnover, saving on recruitment and training costs.
Enhanced Workplace Accommodations: Accommodating an employee with a disability may require workplace modifications, such as installing ramps, widening doorways, or providing assistive technologies. These accommodations can also benefit other employees and customers, making the workplace more accessible and inclusive.
Compliance with Legal Requirements: Many countries have laws and regulations that mandate employers to provide equal employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Hiring and accommodating employees with disabilities can help employers meet their legal obligations and avoid potential legal risks.
Positive Impact on Team Dynamics: Employing someone with a disability can foster a culture of inclusivity and teamwork among employees. It can also increase awareness and understanding of diversity, promote empathy and compassion, and create a supportive and inclusive work environment.

It’s important to everyone understands that hiring and managing employees with disabilities requires proper consideration of their unique needs, accommodations, and privacy rights. The employers TURSA work with understand these commitments and work with us to an inclusive and empowered workplace.

Disability Employment Services (DES):

Disability Employment Services are government-funded programs that provide tailored support to job seekers with disabilities or health conditions. These services may include job placement assistance, vocational training, and ongoing support to help individuals find and keep employment.

Customised Employment:

Customised employment is an approach that matches the skills, interests, and support needs of individuals with disabilities or health conditions to create unique job opportunities. This may involve job, role modification, job sharing, or flexible work arrangements and a range of planning and skills training to optimise job success.

Navigating the Employment Journey with a Disability or Health Condition

Managing a disability or health condition while seeking employment can be challenging, but some resources and strategies can help and this is an area where TURSA can be of enormous assistance. Some critical considerations for navigating the employment journey with a disability or health condition include the following:

Self-Advocacy:

TURSA Disability Employment Services can be a valuable resource in assisting participants with advocating in the workplace. They can provide assistance in various ways, including helping individuals effectively communicate their accommodation needs to their employer. This may involve giving guidance on requesting reasonable accommodations, such as physical modifications or assistive technology.

Additionally, TURSA Disability Employment Services can support participants in discussing flexible work arrangements with their employer. They can provide strategies and advice on negotiating flexible work hours if these accommodations would better align with an individual’s needs and abilities.

Furthermore, TURSA Disability Employment Services can connect individuals with disability advocacy organisations or other relevant resources in the community. These organisations can provide additional support and advocacy for individuals with disabilities in the workplace, such as addressing discrimination or unfair treatment and helping individuals navigate any challenges they may face.

By leveraging the expertise and support of TURSA Disability Employment Services, individuals with disabilities can effectively advocate for themselves in the workplace and ensure that their accommodation needs are met, ultimately promoting a more inclusive and supportive work environment.

Accommodations:

Workplace modifications for individuals with disabilities are crucial for ensuring inclusivity in the workplace. TURSA Disability Employment Services offer support in advocating for reasonable accommodations, such as physical modifications, assistive technology, and flexible work arrangements. This ensures that individuals with disabilities can effectively perform their job duties and thrive in their chosen careers. TURSA Disability Employment Services also provide ongoing support and resources for managing disabilities, promoting inclusive work environments where all employees can succeed.

Career Planning:

TURSA Disability Employment Services are dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities in their employment journey, including career planning. Their team of experts can provide personalised guidance and support in identifying skills, interests, and goals and exploring career options that align with an individual’s abilities and aspirations.

With their specialised knowledge of the labour market and job trends, TURSA Disability Employment Services can offer valuable insights and resources to help individuals develop a comprehensive and effective career plan. This may include assistance with job search strategies, resume development, interview preparation, and ongoing support in navigating the unique challenges that individuals with disabilities may face in the job market.

By leveraging their expertise, TURSA Disability Employment Services can empower individuals with disabilities to achieve their career goals and thrive in the workplace.

Conclusion

Job seekers with a disability or health conditions face unique challenges in finding and keeping employment, but opportunities and resources are available to support their employment journey. Inclusive employers, disability employment services, and customised employment are some avenues that can provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities or health conditions to access meaningful employment.

Navigating the employment journey may require self-advocacy, accommodations, and career planning. Still, with the proper support and resources, job seekers with a disability or health conditions can achieve their employment goals and thrive in the workplace. Remember, you have the ability and potential to succeed in your employment journey, and services and support are available to help you along the way.

Contact TURSA today

let's Empower Your Ability!

Click Here

Support

“Unleashing the Power of Determination: How it Leads to Positive Impact”

Renee’s hard work and determination had a positive impact as she found Employment with the Support of Tursa Employment & Training.

Renee, a determined job seeker, has overcome challenges and achieved success with the support of TURSA who provide Disability Employment Services at Stones Corner, including the unwavering assistance of her dedicated Disability Employment Advocate, Tracey. Renee’s journey towards employment was transformed by Tracey’s personalized approach, belief in her abilities, and unwavering support.

Taking Time to Understand

From the very beginning, Tracey took the time to fully understand Renee’s situation and formed a personal connection with her. Recognizing Renee’s intelligence and talent, Tracey focused on the positives and instilled in her the confidence that she was capable of being an excellent employee. Renee was motivated by Tracey’s belief in her potential and was determined to succeed.

Tracey’s dedication was evident as she secured multiple interviews for Renee and provided thorough preparation, going above and beyond to ensure Renee could attend the interviews and manage her stress levels. She also provided invaluable support during the debriefing process, helping Renee learn and grow from each experience built her level of positivity and confidence.

Renee’s hard work and determination paid off as she secured a Christmas casual position at Myer, and her talent and personality shone through, earning her a permanent position as a highly-regarded team member. She overcame her anxiety and became a valued member of the team, building friendships and gaining a sense of structure, responsibility, and self-worth.

Resilience and Determination

Renee’s success is a testament to her resilience and determination, as well as the support she received from TURSA at Stones Corner and Tracey. Renee and her family express their heartfelt gratitude to Tracey for her integral contribution to Renee’s journey towards employment and improved well-being.

Inspiration

Renee’s story is an inspiring example of how hard work, determination, and supportive guidance can lead to success, and serves as a reminder of the positive impact that dedicated Employment Consultants and mentors can have on individuals seeking employment. With the right support and belief in their abilities, individuals like Renee can overcome challenges and achieve their goals.

Contact TURSA today

let's make a positive impact together!

Click Here

Support

TEL 1800 670 914

Jack – Finding Freedom: Overcoming Struggles and Embracing Change

Depression, anxiety and dependency

A Turning Point

Work for the Dole

Newfound Interest

Staying Aware – A Conscious Effort

Stacy – Jack’s Employment Adviser

Finding Freedom through Resilience, Support and that First Step

Navigating the Employment Journey:

How Job Seekers with Disability can Empower their Job Ability.

Employment Ability for Job Seekers Managing a Disability

Inclusive Employers:

Disability Employment Services (DES):

Customised Employment:

Navigating the Employment Journey with a Disability or Health Condition

Self-Advocacy:

Accommodations:

Career Planning:

Conclusion

Contact TURSA today

“Unleashing the Power of Determination: How it Leads to Positive Impact”

Taking Time to Understand

Resilience and Determination

Inspiration

Contact TURSA today

Share This

Login