After living with mental health challenges for more than 20 years, Matt joined STEPS Work Mates ready to make positive changes in his life. While taking the first step wasn’t easy, he was determined to turn things around and work towards a more independent future.
STEPS Work Mates supports people with a disability to build skills and experience that can help them achieve their employment goals. With the support of his trainers, Matt has gradually challenged himself to step outside his comfort zone and embrace new opportunities.
One of Matt’s biggest accomplishments has been developing the confidence to travel independently. Through travel training with Work Mates, he learned how to use public transport and can now catch the bus on his own.
What may seem like a simple task to some has had a significant positive impact on Matt and his independence, allowing him to feel more connected to his community.
Recently, Matt secured a casual role at his local Bunnings store. He completed the training modules online and shared his excitement with his trainers, expressing just how meaningful this milestone is to him.
He currently works an average of 15 hours a week and has continued to build his confidence in the workplace. Matt can independently use the Bunnings shift system to look for available shifts and put his hand up for extra work, showing his employers and colleagues that he is committed to the role.
Matt said that he is proud of how far he’s come since he first joined STEPS Work Mates, and the team says the feeling is mutual.
Are you someone with a disability looking to reach your employment goals, or are you supporting someone who could benefit from employment support?
STEPS offers our Work Mates program at our sites in Bundaberg, Cairns, Caloundra, Gympie, Hervey Bay, Hobart, Maroochydore, and Townsville.
Visit our Work Mates webpage to learn more and take the next step towards your professional goals.
