After many years out of the workforce due to personal reasons, Catherine, aged 65, was determined to find employment and help others with her caring nature.
It was after getting in touch with WISE she was able to discover a profession that not only suited her interests, but could make a huge difference in the lives of others.
“I have always loved helping people. My parents were the same,” she says.
Her employment consultant, Kaizi, suggested individual support work given her delightful attitude and the compassion she shows toward those in need.
“I found WISE through Centrelink and haven’t had any regrets. Initially, I was apprehensive about finding a job, but Kaizi helped me build the confidence I needed,” Catherine says.
Without professional experience in this field, Catherine shows it’s never too late to enrol in a new course.
She completed a three-week Entry into Aged Care course to give her practical skills, while Kaizi assisted in developing her resume.
Unfortunately, Catherine’s back problems did pose some challenges in the work she was able to undertake, however, it was ultimately no barrier in finding a job that helped others, with her happy-go-lucky mindset getting her through.
“While she did initially receive some knock-backs due to the physical limitations associated with her back pain, we decided to look specifically at care companion jobs. It was the perfect fit, and we secured her a position with an employer who really saw her as an asset,” says Kaizi.
Today, in her position as a Care Companion, she is responsible for looking after others. This includes helping the elderly with tasks such as personal care, as well as light domestic duties.
“It’s all about the client. Whatever they want help with or need is what I do. My work involves showering and dressing those that need assistance, and running errands – things like taking them to medical appointments or doing shopping and banking. I am finding my role very rewarding and it has also helped my confidence. I’m a big believer in keeping the elderly in their home when it’s safe, and I love that I am able to help them do that,” says Catherine.
Kaizi still keeps in touch with Catherine as she settles back into the workforce.
“It’s been amazing to see and a privilege to work with her. She is a beam of sunlight and is glowing” says Kaizi.
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