Amy’s path to Independence and Confidence

In 2022, Amy embarked on a path with are-able Employment Services. At 29 years old and with an intellectual disability, Amy faced unique challenges, including not having a driver’s license. However, with the support and dedication of her Employment Consultants, Reney Hutchins and Kristian Swarbrick, Amy overcame these obstacles and found her place in the workforce.

Amy’s journey began with group sessions designed to boost her confidence. She participated in several job trials to explore suitable employment opportunities. Throughout this process, are-able provided comprehensive support, including purchasing her NSW Working with Children Checks and funding her First Aid Certificate at MADEC. These steps were crucial in preparing Amy for the job market.

Amy’s breakthrough came when she was hired by the Department of Education NSW. She works at Sunassist Volunteers Helpers Inc as an Assisted Transport Support Officer (ATSO). In this role, Amy supports clients by ensuring they are comfortable and happy during their transport. Sunassist’s system of collecting and dropping off Amy from her residence has been instrumental, given her lack of a driver’s license. This arrangement has been ideal for Amy, who is thrilled with her job and the supportive team she works with.

Since securing her position, Amy has experienced a significant transformation. Her confidence has soared, and she has become more outgoing and communicative. Amy’s positive attitude and happiness are evident to everyone around her. As Richard Garlick, Sunassist Executive Officer, notes, “It has been a pleasure to have Amy start working with our Assisted School Program at Sunassist. She is a quiet, calming influence on the children and young people she works with. Amy has been punctual and reliable in her work whilst getting along well with the drivers and other staff in the program.”

Reney Hutchins reflects on Amy’s journey, saying, “I have watched employment evolve Amy into a confident, polite young woman. Amy is hilarious and always willing to attend any appointment we make for her and is also super grateful for anything we support with. It has been very rewarding working with Amy.”

are-able’s support has been pivotal in Amy’s success. The comprehensive assistance with paperwork and probity checks facilitated her seamless transition into the workforce. Richard Garlick commends the organization, saying, “The service and support provided by are-able has made it so much easier for our staff as the required paperwork and probity checks can be quite time-consuming, which are-able supported Amy with. I would highly recommend are-able services.”

Amy’s journey exemplifies the power of dedicated support and the transformative impact of employment. As she approaches her 52-week milestone in August, Amy’s story serves as an inspiring testament to the positive changes that meaningful employment can bring to individuals with disabilities.

To discover more about how are-able is transforming lives through meaningful employment, don’t hesitate to contact our dedicated team today.