Melinda Breaks Through Barriers

For Beenleigh resident Melinda, facing multiple barriers to employment is familiar territory but with some support and guidance from employment services provider Workways, she is breaking through the barriers.

Melinda ‘Mindy’ had been unemployed for more than seven years. During this time, Melinda experienced homelessness, battles with addiction and was told that she would never participate in full time work again due to physical injuries.

However, this all changed when she met with Workways Logan Recruitment Partner Mostyn Rudge. After ongoing mentorship and inspiration, Melinda commenced a Certificate II in Food Processing course. It was this course that reignited Melinda’s passion for the hospitality industry and belonging to a team in a professional environment.

The course enabled Melinda to find the courage to apply for work and attend job interviews. She successfully obtained employment with Contemporary Catering working at an Arcare Aged Care Facility as a Kitchen Attendant. Melinda has now been employed for six months and has received several compliments from her team about her enthusiasm, passion and hard work.

Melinda continues to engage with Workways for support and credits them for helping give her the courage and support to achieve what she says is, the perfect job.

“When the road is blocked, look to Workways for help and it will soon become clear you can achieve everything and anything you set your mind to.” Melinda said.

Having multiple barriers can be daunting for job seekers, but it isn’t the be all and end all.

“Unemployment is not black and white. People often have a number of barriers that they need to overcome before they are in the position to look for work successfully. Workways can help with that. It’s about sustainable employment and that is a process; before, during and after. For both the job seeker and employer,” Mr Rudge said.

Workways has a number of programs to assist those who need help. The programs provide intensive, individualised support for people facing barriers to employment including people who are long term unemployed, jobseekers with disability, young people out of home and mature aged job seekers.

Workways also works closely with other community support services to understand the needs and help develop plans that deliver the best outcomes for job seekers.