AS many employers know, it is difficult to find great staff. Stephanie Hosking Human Resource (HR) Manager at Family Care Shepparton feels very lucky to have met and found a wonderful staff member in Shepparton woman, Caitlin Black.
“From an unexpected introduction, Caitlin has proved to be an asset we didn’t know we needed. Caitlin has quickly established herself to be an integral part of our HR Team,” said Stephanie.
Caitlin was introduced to Stephanie through her WDEA Works Employment Consultant Tiffany Amery. Caitlin had engaged WDEA Works, a Disability Employment Services (DES) provider in April 2020 to support her in finding a job.
“When I met Caitlin, I was immediately impressed by how ready, motivated and organised she was to find a job. She came to us with a list of employers she would like to work for and roles she was experienced and ready to undertake,” said Tiffany.
Caitlin who had experience in administration was interested in finding a role within a medical, dental, or allied health business.
Tiffany spoke with Stephanie at Family Care Shepparton who agreed to interview Caitlin. Stephanie was immediately impressed and keen to provide an employment opportunity.
An assessment was made of the Family Care Shepparton office and found some adaptions were required to make it possible for Caitlin (who uses a wheelchair) to work in the space easily and safely.
Tiffany at WDEA Works was able to support Stephanie and navigate JobAccess to help Family Care Shepparton make their offices more accessible. JobAccess provided financial support so Family Care Shepparton could have electronic doors installed, purchase a suitable desk for Caitlin and other equipment for her role.
“I am so happy for both Caitlin and Stephanie that they were happy to wait and make the office modifications necessary for an accessible workplace with the support of JobAccess. Many employers don’t realise this financial support exists for them so they can confidently hire someone with a disability” said Tiffany.
Caitlin had now been in the role of Administration Officer for over 5 months and is thriving. She supports the HR team with administrative functions, data entry and creation of files – no job is too big or small. Initially starting with one day’s work a week, this has quickly progressed to two and sometimes three with Caitlin confidently able to assist any department within the organisation that need administrative support.
“Caitlin has shown she is not limited by her disability and provides excellent work outcomes in her new role,” said Stephanie.
Caitlin is enjoying the benefits of employment and enjoys being part of the team.
“I feel more confident and enjoy having responsibilities. It’s nice to have the stability that comes with an income plus I’ve made new friends and am enjoying the social side of employment,” said Caitlin.
Tiffany is thrilled she was able to support Caitlin in finding employment in such a positive workplace. “She is a lovely young lady, she was so patient and driven to find the right role. I’m so pleased for both Caitlin and Stephanie that I was able to bring them together. This is what I love about my job” she said.
