Small changes open big doors
To most, work is just a necessity and something people have to do, but for Scott Abdy meaningful employment is the source of a great deal of satisfaction and, more importantly, freedom.
The Bundaberg resident is keen to maintain his independence and work for a living and with the help of STEPS, the Federal Government’s Job Access program and a supportive employers, he’s reaching those goals.
Thanks to the support offered by STEPS, Scott’s employers have sought and obtained financial help to create a safer and more accessible workplace.
Scott’s employer, Superior Pak, received Job Access funding as a result of applications made by STEPS on their behalf and the money they received forms part of over $100,000 received by Bundaberg business in the past year.
“I have been legally deaf since I was three years old after I contracted HIB meningitis,” Scott said.
The 22-year-old is trade qualified and is currently working as a spray painter with Superior Pak, a manufacturer of waste management equipment in North Bundaberg.
“I got the job at Superior Pak through my dad, Peter, who has worked there for more than five years,” he said.
“When I had finished my apprenticeship in January 2009, dad asked the plant manager, Paul Morgan, if there were any jobs available. Paul asked for my resume and for me to come out and work for a day and then he put me on a 13-week probation.
“I’ve been working there since the start of the year and I’m doing 38 hours a week now. I love the money and the working environment.”
While Scott’s skills were enough to qualify him to do the work, his hearing disability would have presented a few problems in the workplace without the modifications made by Superior Pak through the Job Access funding.
Paul contacted STEPS to seek assistance with an application for funding from Job Access and was awarded close to $20,000 to spend on workplace improvements.
“They have installed movement sensors on a number of the doorways where forklifts are used and I wear a wrist-watch-like device with an in-built vibrator and flashing light that is connected to the fire alarm,” Scott said.
In addition, Superior Pak staff will soon be undertaking Auslan Language training so they will be able to communicate more effectively with Scott. ”
|
