Walter worked as a police officer for 27 years where he developed Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. He tried to return to work by applying for a large number of roles. None of these were successful on a long term basis. As a result of his condition and work history he was assessed as being
“unemployable” by a number of psychiatrists.
The condition impacted on every aspect of Walter’s life including family relations, self esteem and employment. Even though he had been told he wasn’t fit to work, Walter gained relief work with Marist Youth Care and was offered a twelve month contract as a Human Resource Coordinator—Return to Work and Occupational Health and Safety.
Before starting in the role, Walter disclosed his illness to his manager and they discussed accommodations that could be made to his work conditions to account for his mental health condition. As the manager was aware of his condition he was able to offer Walter the following:
- Part time work with five to ten minute breaks every half an hour to combat concentration issues and fatigue;
- Leave without pay if required for treatment; and
- Part time employment for three days per week.
Because Walter felt grateful for all that the company had done to support him, he contacted JobAccess to find out about supports and assistance available to help his employer.
Walter stated that issues he had in the workplace related to fatigue and concentration. As Marist Youth Care had covered the issue of fatigue by giving him regular rest breaks, his main work concern was his concentration. Through the Workplace Modifications Scheme, a workplace assessment was organised to look at modifications which could improve his performance at work. Items such as a mobile computer, a Personal Digital Assistant and a digital voice recorder were approved to remove concentration as a barrier in the workplace.
By having a flexible approach to their employee’s needs Marist Youth Care gained a dedicated worker and Walter has the benefit of part time work and improved self esteem. The change in Walter’s life since being employed has been dramatic and this has filtered through to all aspects of his life.
More information?