After setbacks finding permanent work as a farm hand, Allan, who lost his left arm in a motor vehicle accident, went to NEATO Employment Services for help.
Allan’s adviser at NEATO, a Job Network provider, encouraged him to consider new opportunities.
Seeing Allan’s desire to work and his keen, up-beat attitude, he suggested Allan apply for a job as an appliance tester with Tim the Toolman.
After the interview, Tim said, ‘I couldn’t believe how positive and determined Allan was. He wanted the job more than all the other applicants’.
Allan’s positive attitude set him apart from the other job seekers, but Allan still had one more thing to overcome to get the job: the vehicle and equipment for the job needed two hands.
NEATO told Tim about the Workplace Modifications Scheme (WMS) and helped him apply for an automatic vehicle and new equipment for Allan.
The Workplace Modifications Scheme is an Australian Government scheme that pays for the costs involved in modifying the workplace or purchasing special or adaptive equipment for eligible employees with disability. Through the scheme, a workplace assessor determines the best equipment for the job at no cost to NEATO or the employer.
Considering new opportunities, a positive attitude and modifications enabled Allan to get work.
Now, Allan is in a job he can see himself doing forever and Tim has an employee who is fantastic at his job and whose people skills and positive attitude have brought business.
If you have a job seeker like Allan who wants to work, encourage them to be positive and consider new and different employment options—thinking outside the box may open up new opportunities.
You can also remind employers that employing people with disability can increase customer loyalty and bring business. If need be, you can also let them know about the Workplace Modifications Scheme.
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