Bernice’s journey back to the workforce after a TPD injury

After sustaining a TPD (Total Permanent Disability) from a workplace injury as a nurse, Bernice faced a daunting seven-year journey of recovery. The thought of returning to the workforce seemed overwhelming, especially since nursing, a career she once thrived in, was no longer an option. With limited computer skills and lacking some confidence, Bernice felt unprepared to transition into an office environment. However, her determination to regain independence and build a new career path led her to the Feros Care Work Experience program in Mackay.  

“I only knew how to email and play on Facebook before the work experience,” Bernice explains. “I wanted to upgrade my admin skills to feel more confident before applying for jobs.” 

Recommended by her disability employment service, Bernice applied and was selected for Feros Care Work Experience. The program was tailored to her needs, offering a manageable schedule of two days per week, five hours per day. This setup was perfect for Bernice, allowing her to participate without exacerbating her back injury. Feros Care also ensured her comfort with a suitable workspace and regular breaks to move around. 

“I was very nervous, but everyone made me feel welcome,” Bernice says of her first day. 

Over six weeks, Bernice worked closely with three team members, Siobhan, Diane and Matias, gaining essential office skills such as basic computer operations, desktop shortcuts, and the intricacies of printing and collating packs for clients and community organisations. She found a patient and supportive mentor in Matias, a Community Development Coordinator at Feros Care, who played a pivotal role in her development. 

“Matias was very patient with my computer skills. He gave clear directions and taught me some great shortcuts to use on the computer. The whole experience was very positive, and the team was excellent.” 

By the end of the program, Bernice had acquired a solid understanding of the NDIS, photocopying, and basic office duties. She is in the middle of completing a Certificate III in Business and has been able to use some of the knowledge she gained during her work experience. 

“During work experience, I learnt about cultural diversity and inclusion, which I found interesting, and I’ve used that new knowledge in my Cert III assignments.” 

While Bernice continues to enhance her computer skills, she is building confidence and feels optimistic about applying for part-time admin roles. The experience has not only equipped her with new skills but also reignited her passion for contributing to the workforce. 

Growing confidence by focussing on ability

When Bernice joined the project, the team, saw an opportunity to help her grow both professionally and personally. From the outset, they tailored tasks to match Bernice’s goals, focusing on computer literacy and foundational admin roles such as assembling informational packs and managing resources. 

“Bernice said she learnt a lot about disability services that are available in the community that she hadn’t been aware of before,” Matias shares. “I really enjoyed watching not only her skills but also her confidence grow over the six weeks.” 

Matias ensured that the office environment was conducive to Bernice’s needs, implementing simple adjustments like a sit-stand desk, regular breaks, and frequent check-ins. These accommodations made a significant difference, allowing Bernice to work comfortably and efficiently. 

Diane introduced Bernice to new technologies, including a session on AI and Chat GPT, sparking her interest in areas she hadn’t explored before. As her work experience progressed, she provided guidance on potential job opportunities that matched her skills and interests, such as roles involving NDIS-assisted technology aids and leveraging her nursing background. 

“Bernice really loved learning things she hadn’t been exposed to before,” Diane recalls. 

She also helped Bernice refine her job search skills, offering tips on navigating job listings and improving her interview techniques. This comprehensive support aimed to prepare Bernice for a successful transition into part-time admin work, where her experience and new skills could shine. 

Empowerment through experience

As Bernice continues to build her skills and confidence, she looks forward to contributing to the workforce once again, equipped with the tools and knowledge gained from her time at Feros Care.  

With the right support and opportunities, it’s easier to overcome challenges and rediscover your potential.  

Feros Care is committed to empowering individuals with disability, providing them with the tools and resources needed to thrive in their careers and communities. 

If you would like to know more about how Feros Care’s community projects and programs can help you achieve your goals, click here.