Tobias uses his support network to help overcome his fear

Tobias is pictured standing next to his Employment Consultant Kawser

Tobias and his Employment Consultant Kawser have been a strong team from day one

Kawser met Tobias on her first day at APM Hurstville, in August 2020.

After spending time getting to know Tobias, Kawser was able to understand his barriers which were limiting his ability to locate employment.

Tobias lives with a learning and behavioural disability and was struggling with depression and anxiety at the time. Without a lot of work experience, he was not feeling confident enough to put himself forward to employers.

“I wanted to find a job, but I felt overwhelmed when it came to job interviews” Tobias said.

“I really felt for him” Kawser said.

“One of the first things I did with Tobias was to explain how we (APM) could help him achieve his goal, and we could do it together.”

They got started straightaway.

Kawser referred Tobias to Targeted Pre-Employment Preparation, booked him in for a Driver Knowledge Test and organised for Tobias to complete his white card.

Although he found these tasks quite daunting, he overcame his fear with support and even obtained his learner’s license!

Whilst working closely with Tailored Workforce (TWF) Employment Consultant Yvonne, Kawser came across a vacancy for a kitchenhand position.

Tobias had previously mentioned he would like to work in hospitality and start in a kitchenhand position – so Kawser forwarded his resume through.

Believing that with the right training Tobias would achieve employment success, Kawser approached Yvonne with an idea – if a Trainee position and wage subsidy were offered, Tobias could get his foot in the door.

A work trial was arranged and Kawser assisted Tobias by purchasing clothes for the interview.

And it was a great success - Tobias became a Trainee Kitchenhand at a local café.

He told Kawser how excited he was to use his paycheck to buy a present for his girlfriend who had helped him when he was struggling with his mental health.

The right support really can change lives- congratulations Tobias!


Injury, illness or disability and want to work?

You could be eligible for help in finding a suitable job from APM Employment Services.

As Australia’s largest provider of the Disability Employment Services program we help thousands of people with permanent or temporary disabilities, injuries, mental health conditions and other diagnosed barriers which may prevent them finding successful employment.

If you want to find out more, register with us today, or call our team on 1800 276 276 for more information.

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Looking for staff?

We don’t just support job seekers, we also help thousands of employers find reliable staff and access government incentives when hiring new employees.

If you’re an employer, you could access wage subsidies, plus funds for training and workplace modifications when hiring a person with disability for full or part-time work.

Plus, you will be enhancing the diversity of your business while making a real positive difference in a person’s life.

Find out more about this rewarding opportunity for employers by speaking to your nearest APM Employment Services team, or emailing support@apm.net.au.