Empowering Employment: are-able and Guf Creating Opportunities in Ballarat

At are-able, we believe that meaningful employment can be life-changing. In Ballarat, a powerful partnership with Guf has created opportunities for four individuals facing unique barriers to employment. Thanks to the dedication of Employment Consultant Thomas Guthridge and the School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) team in Wendouree, these participants have found tailored support, innovative workplace solutions, and the chance to thrive in their roles.

This collaboration highlights the impact of inclusive employment practices, workplace adaptability, and the importance of personalised support in creating lasting change.

Rebekah: Overcoming Barriers with Innovation

After transferring to are-able in December 2024, Rebekah Small discovered a new level of support with Employment Consultant Thomas Guthridge. She faced multiple challenges, including Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Affective Disorder, Fibromyalgia/Chronic Fatigue, and Attention Deficit Disorder, making it difficult to maintain employment.

Recognising her potential, Thomas worked closely with Guf to customise a role that leveraged Rebekah’s Advanced Diploma in Graphic Design. Today, she excels in marketing and social media while also assisting in-store. Through the Job Access program, she secured an ergonomic stool, ensuring she could work comfortably.

With ongoing emotional and on-the-job support, Rebekah has gained confidence, built resilience, and established herself as a valued team member at Guf.

Brandon: Taking the First Steps into Employment

For Brandon Duffin, mainstream employment was an entirely new experience. Having never worked before, he joined are-able in August 2023, seeking a structured and supportive pathway into the workforce. With Depression and Anxiety as key barriers, he needed an opportunity that provided gradual skill development.

Thomas facilitated a tailored training opportunity at Guf, where Brandon started in November 2024. Through step-by-step learning, he has grown in confidence, adapted to workplace expectations, and steadily built his skills.

With Guf’s commitment to accommodating his benchmark hours and weekly post-placement support, Brandon has successfully transitioned into employment, proving that with the right structure and encouragement, anyone can achieve workplace success.

Joshua: Navigating Employment with Visual Impairment

For individuals with significant disabilities, finding meaningful employment can be particularly challenging. Joshua Pring, who has a visual impairment and receives the Disability Support Pension (DSP), was eager to contribute but had never worked in mainstream employment.

Joining are-able in May 2024, Joshua worked with Thomas to identify a pathway that would allow him to explore employment possibilities. Together with Guf, they arranged a work experience placement, ensuring Joshua could try different roles and determine the workplace adjustments required.

Since February 2025, he has been successfully working two four-hour shifts per week, with Guf providing tailored support and workplace adaptations to accommodate his needs. With consistent check-ins and proactive adjustments, Joshua has developed confidence and a renewed sense of purpose.

Brady: Building Confidence Through Supported Experience

For 19-year-old Brady Colman, who has Autism, transitioning into a work environment required a highly structured approach. Enrolling in the SLES program in November 2023, he benefited from targeted skill development and individualised support.

Recognising the importance of real-world experience, Employment Preparation and Engagement Consultant Julia Blythman and Thomas collaborated to establish a supported work placement at Guf. Attending one hour per week on Thursdays, and accompanied by Julia, Brady has been gradually building confidence and adapting to the work environment.

This step-by-step introduction to employment has proven invaluable, allowing him to gain workplace exposure in a controlled and supportive setting while developing essential independence skills.

The Power of Partnership

These success stories highlight the transformative impact of partnerships like the one between are-able and Guf. By customising roles, implementing workplace interventions, and providing ongoing support, Thomas and the SLES team have paved the way for sustainable employment opportunities for people facing significant barriers.

At are-able, we are dedicated to empowering individuals through meaningful employment. Our experience, expertise, and commitment to inclusive workplaces have helped us become a Top 3 Registered Provider for open employment outcomes—three years in a row!

If you or someone you know is looking for tailored support on the journey from school to work, contact our team today. Let’s work together to find your achieve-able pathway to success!

👉 Get in touch with us today and start your journey toward meaningful employment!