Leon Rises Above his Challenges

When Leon first attended Workskil Australia’s Port Augusta office in 2023, he had been out of the workforce for many years. The 65-year-old had been the caregiver for his wife, who recently passed away following a long battle with mental health challenges.   

Leon was grieving, but having lost access to the Carer Payment, he needed further income to meet mortgage repayments.

Following the long absence from the workforce, finding a job was daunting and caused anxiety.

Leon’s Employment Coach Amy recognised the severity of his challenges and referred him to counselling with our Allied Health team.

Amy also suggested that he utilise the years of experience caring for his wife and explore support work opportunities. Leon was willing to consider this and give counselling a go.

Allied Health Practitioner Lourdes worked with Leon to build strategies for overcoming his challenges.

Over the coming months, they worked together to build his confidence, manage anxiety and utilise social connections for everyday support.

Between counselling, Amy worked with Leon to explore suitable employment opportunities and upskill for the modern workforce.

Leon engaged Career Transition Assistance, Workskil Australia’s preparatory program for job seekers over 45. There, he improved his digital literacy, including how to search for jobs and apply online. The Facilitator worked with him to map out the path to becoming a support worker.

Leon completed a first aid course and the screening checks for working with vulnerable people. He also began volunteering with The Salvation Army to get back into the rhythm of working.

Workskil Australia provided fuel and food vouchers to support Leon with living requirements.

In early 2024, Leon attended a Workskil Australia information session where he connected with the director of an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander care provider. He followed up with the director and secured a part-time position.

Shortly after, he landed another part-time role as a support worker with a different provider. The two roles provided a manageable number of work hours for Leon to start feeling better about his situation. He was gradually moving forward.

Recently, Leon advised that he is doing well at the jobs and enjoys working. He was referred to a psychologist for ongoing mental health support.

11.9% of Australia’s population are carers/caregivers. That’s three million Australians making personal sacrifices to provide essential care for others.

Carers can require care themselves, in maintaining their health and achieving goals. Leon’s swift progress shows his incredible determination and exemplifies what’s possible with the right support.

We wish Leon all the best for the future.