Gathering the ingredients
Josh’s journey with Community Solutions began in 2021, driven by his determination to find a job where he could truly thrive. As a job seeker in Rockhampton, Josh has experienced firsthand the challenges of finding the right job opportunity while navigating physical or intellectual barriers.
With the support of our Disability Employment Services (DES) team and the welcoming environment at Banjo’s Bakery, he finally found the opportunity he had been searching for.
When Community Solutions approached Banjo’s with Josh’s resume, the owners not only accepted his resume on the spot, but they also contacted the team one week later to discuss how they could work together to fill multiple positions within their team.
Mixing it together
After one round of interviews, Banjo’s decided to hire all three of Community Solutions’ clients!
This was a very exciting moment for Josh and meant a step towards independence. To set him up for success, Community Solutions provided him with the necessary work gear, including footwear and clothing, ensuring he was ready to start his new job with confidence.
Josh said he was really excited and happy to have a job and be paid.
Kneading through challenges
After checking in with Banjo’s during Josh’s first week, the team learned that while he was doing well, he needed some support in building confidence and increasing his pace in the fast-paced bakery environment.
Josh faced some challenges, particularly with handling large, hot stainless-steel pots and bowls from the dishwasher. To help him overcome these challenges, Antoniette, Community Solutions Recruitment Partner, arranged an on-site visit to work with Josh one-on-one. By demonstrating more efficient ways to complete his tasks, Antoniette was able to help him develop his skills and feel more comfortable in his role.
“I wasn’t able to pick up the big hot stainless-steel pots and bowls when they came out of the dishwasher. Antoinette came and visited me and showed me how to slide them to the side to cool down or use a tea towel. She also encouraged me to try and do it on my own instead of always asking my manager,” Josh said.
Baked to perfection
Since joining Banjo’s, Josh has flourished both personally and professionally. When asked what he loves most about his job, he said,
“My work colleagues, the most amazing boss ever, and being paid, but mostly, the people I work with.”
“This is the best job I have ever had,” Josh said.
The team at Banjo’s has gone above and beyond to create an inclusive, welcoming environment for all Community Solutions’ clients. Their support, combined with Community Solutions Disability Employment Services (DES) team, has been instrumental in helping Josh build confidence, develop new skills, and settle into his role.
Supported employment plays a crucial role in empowering people like Josh, ensuring they have access to employment opportunities. We are incredibly grateful to Banjo’s for providing these opportunities and admire Josh’s determination and commitment to finding meaningful employment!
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