Pat's decade of determination and development
Pat, a self-proclaimed gym junkie and footy fanatic, faced challenges many of us take for granted.
Living with an intellectual disability, he found driving or working full-time was not an option for him when he left school.
But Pat was determined to carve out his own path.
Pat's life before employment was unstructured and unfulfilling.
"My structure was just doing nothing," he recalls.
He was eager to have more independence and an opportunity to earn his own income.
This desire led him to APM Employment Services, and a team dedicated to helping people with disability find meaningful employment.
"I wanted to get into the workforce and start earning a bit of income for me," Pat said.
Preparing for a new challenge
At APM, Pat met a team of dedicated professionals who saw his potential and were committed to helping him succeed.
"Pat came into the Warragul office around about 10 to 11 years ago wanting a job," said Shelley, a Business Manager at APM Employment Services.
"He wanted some independence, he wanted some assistance to find a job. He didn't know where to start."
The team at APM recognised that Pat's confidence was low, so they worked to build it up.
They conducted mock interviews, provided coaching, and even accompanied Pat to meet potential employers.
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I wanted to get into the workforce and start earning a bit of income for me.”
Finding the right opportunity
With more confidence and determination Pat landed a role at the Warragul Country Club, where he started with simple tasks like grabbing glasses.
"We started him off very slight, so he was grabbing glasses, and we had a lot of spillages," Shelley said.
But Pat's determination and willingness to learn quickly became evident. He progressed from handling glasses to delivering coffees in the café, and eventually, he found his place in the Bistro.
"The progression that we've seen with Pat moving from when he first started there to now, he's amazing," Shelley added.
Pat's role in the Bistro involves taking meals to tables, clearing them, and engaging with customers. His friendly nature and welcoming chatter have made him a beloved figure among the patrons.
"Customers absolutely love him and he's a big part of our team. We would not be the same without him if we didn't have Pat with us," said Hospitality Manager Ann.
Becoming happier and healthier
Having a structured job has made a significant difference in Pat's life. It boosted his confidence and allowed him to meet new people.
Pat’s mum Lynette soon noticed the difference as he found his feet in the workplace.
"Having the structure has definitely made a big difference to his growth as a person," she said.
And Pat's social circle expanded, so he’s now a well-known figure around town.
"When we're out and about, he's saying hello to people that we've got no idea who they are, so that's amazing. Everybody knows Pat around town,” Lynette added.
It’s not just Pat’s work and social life that’s developed in the past few years, his physical health has also improved.
A regular fitness fanatic he often sees people he meets through his work while he works out.
“We talk and they've been supportive since I started there, which is unreal," Pat said.
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Customers absolutely love him and he's a big part of our team. We would not be quite the same if we didn't have Pat with us.”
Pat’s seen for his strengths
Pat's career journey highlights how a disability does not define a person.
Just as Pat chose not to be defined by his disability, the team at APM and Warragul Country Club worked together to focus on Pat's strengths and help him overcome any barriers.
"A disability doesn't define Patrick. Patrick's Patrick and we love him for who he is," Ann said.
"We measure what Patrick can do and can't do, and we work to his strengths, and we try and help him with his weaknesses, which is I think all of us, not just Patrick," she added.
Pat says his decade at the Club has allowed him to learn various skills and adapt to different roles.
"It's more challenging being in the bistro, but I love that challenge,” he said.
“I love the fast pace, getting the food out, the customers and just going for fun and just enjoying having fun."
Reflecting on his successful 10 years, Pat said he is filled with gratitude.
"I couldn't have done it without the support of APM. To be able to be still working here 10 years later, it's a big achievement," he proudly states.
About Disability Employment Services
If you have a disability, injury or health condition, we know that doesn’t define you.
If you’re eligible for Disability Employment Services (DES), speak to APM Employment Services for help finding meaningful and fulfilling employment, and to get you to where you want to be.
Your support is unique to you, your goals, and the type of work you’re interested in. It may include:
- help to prepare for work
- job-specific training
- access to health or other local support services
You’ll also get support to search and apply for jobs.
When you’re ready to work, we’ll help with interviews and meeting local employers too.
When you start work, we may also help with on-the-job training, access to tools, uniforms or assistance with transport costs.
Chat with us today and choose what defines you – including a job you love.
Call 1800 276 276 or click Register now below to get started.