EDIT : As of 24 July 2023, Jobfind’s disability employment services are provided by uLaunch.
At Jobfind, we provide support for people with different employment levels, including self-employment. Susan, a business owner, came into our Wollongong office in October 2021 after struggling with health issues and COVID impacting her business.
Susan chose Jobfind because of the positive reputation and feedback she had heard through her social network, and she started on her journey with Employment Consultant Carol Clarke.
In 2019, Susan and her husband embarked on a business venture by opening a Bed and Breakfast in the idyllic village of Robertson located on the Southern Highlands in New South Wales. With her business degree and her husband’s background as a tradesman, they had the key fundamentals to run a successful business.
Then the pandemic hit, and lockdowns meant closures and Susan and her husband suffered terrible financial losses. Adding to an already difficult time, Susan was diagnosed with breast cancer in early 2020, which led to overwhelming psychological trauma resulting in severe anxiety and depression. She felt defeated.
Carol quickly understood what support Susan needed during the initial appointment and how Jobfind could help through our Disability Employment Support program.
“I thought Susan would benefit from an individualised job plan which included mentoring sessions, assistance with finding a personal balance, confidence-building and setting personal and professional goals.”
Appointments and mentoring continued with great success. Throughout 2021 life turned around, and Susan began to feel more positive. She is currently cancer-free and has even has re-opened her B&B.
Carol has been a great support to Susan through scheduled post placement support contact appointments.
“My primary focus was one-on-one regular supportive mentoring sessions over the phone to help her through her anxiety. We worked on implementing strategies to create a positive and enthusiastic mindset, guidance and reassurance with implementing short term and long term personal and employment goals.”
Susan has overcome many hurdles and has shown she is handling her work-life balance in a more structured and positive mindset – she just needed the support and expertise to help her on her way!
