In August 2024, Shannon’s life took a new turn. At 19, he had just transitioned to independent living after spending most of his life in the foster care system. With multiple diagnoses, including autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and foetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), Shannon faced significant challenges. He relied on the Disability Support Pension and received assistance from his NDIS worker to manage his weekly appointments.
When Shannon was referred to the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) program by his clinician, Viki, he wasn’t sure about his employment prospects. He had attempted a trade qualification through TAFE but found it too difficult due to his learning needs. However, he had some experience working on farms and expressed a preference for hands-on jobs that didn’t require customer interaction. He was open to roles in farming, gardening, or roadwork but lacked the confidence to pursue them independently.
Building skills and confidence
Shannon’s vocational worker collaborated with Ben from Advanced Personnel Management (APM) to align services and support Shannon’s employment goals. Ben arranged funding for Shannon to complete a traffic control course through Australian Training Plus, while Shannon’s vocational worker provided transport and in-person support.
Attending the course was a turning point. Shannon’s vocational worker helped him with paperwork and encouraged him to engage with classmates. Completing the course successfully was a significant confidence boost, and for the first time in a long while, Shannon felt a sense of achievement.
Finding the right fit
With his newfound confidence, Shannon and his vocational worker updated his resume and started job-hunting. His vocational worker also engaged in reverse marketing, directly approaching local businesses to explore employment opportunities. One such visit was to Valley Produce, where she spoke with Tim, the business owner. While Tim wasn’t actively hiring, he was interested in the IPS program and agreed to give Shannon a trial.
Shannon’s trial was supported through APM, which covered the cost to ensure he was paid for his work. Shannon impressed Tim with his work ethic, leading to a part-time role at Valley Produce for 24 hours a week. This milestone not only provided Shannon with financial stability but also a growing sense of independence.
Overcoming barriers to employment
One of the biggest challenges Shannon faced was transportation. Public transport services in his rural town didn’t run early enough to get him to work on time. To bridge the gap, APM and headspace took turns driving Shannon to work throughout January. Recognising the need for a long-term solution, Shannon’s vocational worker supported him in obtaining his bike rider’s licence and sourcing an affordable bike. Thanks to careful saving from his wages, Shannon was able to purchase a bike, giving him the freedom to travel independently.
A life transformed
Over four months in the IPS program, Shannon underwent remarkable personal growth. His confidence soared, and his mental health improved significantly. Shannon is still engaged with the program but no longer requires mental health support, and his reliance on the Disability Support Pension has reduced as he built financial independence through employment.
Shannon’s story is a testament to the power of tailored employment support, community collaboration, and rural workforce inclusion. With the right guidance, flexibility, and encouragement, he was able to break barriers, gain meaningful employment, and step into a future filled with possibility. His journey underscores the importance of investing in social and employment services that empower young people in rural communities to thrive, no matter their circumstances.
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