Bankstown Employee’s Job Saved During COVID-19

Terry turned to Afford’s Disability Employment Services (DES) in late 2019. He felt that finding work that he enjoyed, and that suited his abilities would give him purpose and happiness in life.

Afford (The Australian Foundation for Disability) is a leading not-for-profit disability provider that champions inclusivity for people of all abilities. Afford employment consultants support job seekers to find the job that is right for them.

For Terry, his history in finding employment had left him with little self-confidence. He was motivated and interested in working but struggles with his health and communication often stood in the way of employers taking him on and giving him a go.

He met with employment consultants, Ahmad and Jennifer, at Afford DES in Bankstown. They listened to his employment goals and discussed Terry’s unique abilities that he could bring to a role.

Ahmad and Jennifer identified that Terry had an interest in cleaning. They reached out to their business connections in a variety of industries for any opportunities for Terry.

Menai Car Repairs was in search of a good cleaner for their business. Terry met with the owner, Negam, and showed a keen interest in the job and training opportunities. After intensive training with Negam and Afford consultants, Terry embraced his new cleaning role with enthusiasm.

Shortly after starting his job, the global pandemic impacted many local businesses extremely hard, including Negam’s. A decline in customers and income meant that Negam considered closing the doors to her business.

Terry’s new job was suddenly at risk. Nagham contacted Ahmad at Afford to explain the situation and the possibility of having to cease Terry’s employment.

To support both Terry and Negam through tough times, Ahmad discussed the Government’s Job Keeper initiative with Negam. 

Negam sought advice and registered for the Job Keeper initiative for her business. Menai Car Repairs continued operating throughout COVID-19. Terry also continued working.

For Terry, being able to continue his job has meant a lot to him. After several years of searching for the right role, Menai Car Repairs was a workplace where he felt confident in his abilities. 

Support from Afford DES consultants secured lasting work for Terry and supported Negam’s business through difficult times. 

The employment experience with DES has helped Terry’s overall mental wellbeing. Self belief in his abilities continues to grow. He has found a job that gives him purpose and meaning in life.

Afford is a registered charity and has been operating in Australia for 68 years, providing a range of disability supports to thousands of people every day.

As one of Australia’s longest-serving not-for-profit disability organisations, Afford goes above and beyond traditional service offerings to adapt to new operating environments to support individuals achieve their goals for work, home and life under the NDIS.

For more information visit www.afford.com.au or call 1300 233 673.

ENDS

Editor's Note: Images available at: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/az18ong59otcuzw/AACNmADcUYuyQWwOAxw-gbOAa?dl=0
 

Media Contact: Maria Crema: Crema PR m 0402 239 929 e maria@cremapr.com.au

About Afford - www.afford.com.au

The Australian Foundation for Disability is a registered charity providing disability services to thousands of people across Australia. The supports provided by Afford include Shared Living; Overnight Respite; Social and Community Programs; Transition to Work Programs; Transition to Retirement Programs; Carer Support; Disability Employment Services; Supported Employment; Allied Health Support, Support Coordination and Supported Holidays.