A new employment initiative to help those with disabilities, injuries or health conditions has been launched by The Salvation Army in Narre Warren.
The new program has been dubbed as the ‘Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA).
Although the initiative is new at Narre Warren, Tiffnny O’Connor, an IEA employment consultant, has helped many people to get their foot in the door through the Employment Plus program.
Throughout the process, many aspects are considered; such as reviewing resumes and cover letters along with preparing participants with interviews.
Tiffnny says that this helps participants to “concisely communicate their point of view, assert needs, set boundaries and negotiate”.
Most recently, through these methods, she helped a local man with autism who was successful in getting a job with a manufacturing company.
While the job does not officially begin until January, the team will continue to provide support through broader counselling services to help manage his anxiety.
The service also extends to employers, ensuring that assistance is available to workplaces that work with neurodivergent staffers.
“Sometimes employers are nervous or don’t feel they know enough about a condition to employ with confidence,” said Tiffnny.
“They see a label, and it raises concerns, rather than how we know these candidates to be, very loyal employees with a unique perspective on the world that adds to company culture.
“This can be felt by job seekers and impact their confidence.”
Equally, the impact from years of social obstacles can limit job seeking endeavours says Tiffnny.
“Often participants have (often unconsciously) formed their own self-limiting beliefs and haven’t spent a lot of time looking at the formal employment process and building up the necessary documents,” she said.
In preparing for each unique case, Tiffnny says that “no two individuals are the same”.
“Practical skill levels aside, some people are rearing to go, while some need significant support to build confidence,” she said.
“Having the background file notes is a great start, but being open minded with every single person is key to making work more accessible for all.”
As well as ensuring the EPlus team has enough background knowledge about each case, Tiffnny says she’s very focused on “leaving any preconceived ideas at the door.”
“In the first meeting we went through the paperwork to get onboard into the IEA program,” explained Tiffnny.
“I give them a brief run through of the process but then I intentionally open the floor to hear them share their story directly.
“I listen not just to the words, but how they are saying things and observe what their body language is telling me about how comfortable and confident they are feeling.”
For Tiffnny, the specialist frameworks behind the IEA programs helps to ensure that everyone is given equal opportunity and support they need to succeed in their position.
“Job seekers living with a disability can sometimes be marginalised in a way others aren’t and without support some may never realise their potential and ability to enjoy independence,” said Tiffnny.
“Sometimes this comes from stigmas from the broader community, but it can often be limiting belief within a person that has been given a label, such as Autism or ADHD.
“It’s our job to listen to them, help problem solve, provide social connection but ultimately empower them.
“What we can sometimes forget is the incredible value people living with disability, health conditions or injury can bring to our workplace.
“They are loyal, reliable employees, with a unique perspective that can add positively to an organisation’s culture.”
For Tiffnny, it’s clear that those who live with a disability are so much more than just their diagnosis.
“They are not their disability, they are living with,” she said.
“For example, someone with autism who is feeling extremely anxious about a new job may think it’s their autism and a sign they cannot handle a role.
“But heightened nerves are a very normal response for any person about to start a job.
“If we can be the support to get this person over this period of heightened self-doubt, we can see them reach their full potential.
Which is why Tiffnny says she takes it “very personally” when someone she’s guided is successful in their employment endeavours.
