From Setback to Support Worker: A Ballarat Client’s Journey to Empowerment

When are-able Site Manager Carolynne first met the 44-year-old Ballarat woman, she was navigating the aftermath of profound personal trauma, health challenges, and prolonged disconnection from employment. Born in the Philippines, the client migrated to Australia in her early 20s, leaving behind a close-knit family she had helped raise. The move brought culture shock and, heartbreakingly, a marriage marked by domestic violence that severely impacted her mental health.

Despite holding qualifications in aged care, computer science, and small business management, the client’s confidence and capacity to engage in meaningful employment had been deeply affected. She suffered from anxiety, depression, a disc protrusion, and hyperthyroidism, and had not felt truly supported in past work environments. She had worked as a housekeeper for six years before connecting with are-able, but fear, distrust, and self-doubt clouded her path back to the workforce.

With support from Carolynne, the client’s journey took a dramatic turn. Together, they focused on building trust, boosting confidence, and breaking down barriers to employment. This included goal setting, emotional support, and practical steps like supplying interview clothing, providing a learner driver’s book, assisting with a Working With Children Check, and preparing for job interviews.

The client had expressed an interest in administration but was unsure of her options. Through ongoing discussions, Carolynne helped her realise her natural empathy and background in care work could be perfect for a role in support work. Without a driver’s licence, transport was initially a hurdle—until the client independently found an opportunity through a friend at a local NDIS support agency that didn’t require driving.

The client interviewed successfully and began working in a role that proved to be a perfect fit: providing personal and community support to a non-verbal elderly woman. Her duties included personal care, going on walks, styling her hair, and helping her feel dignified and valued—small gestures that made a world of difference.

Since then, the transformation has been extraordinary. The client has now maintained over 52 weeks of continuous employment. She’s visited her family in the Philippines for the first time in years, replaced lost residency documents, secured a new passport, and is now saving for a car and working toward relocating her sister to Australia. She is actively seeking opportunities to expand her work hours and apply her skills in other support settings.

are-able continues to provide emotional support, check-ins, and resources like First Aid and CPR training to help her thrive. With a renewed sense of purpose and joy, her warmth and resilience now shine in every appointment, leaving staff smiling and inspired.

“It has been my honour to work with this client,” says Carolynne. “To hear of the adversity she has been through and to see where she is now is just wonderful. She is confident, bright, bubbly—and leaves you exhausted but smiling.”

This story is a testament to the life-changing impact of meaningful support, trust, and employment opportunities. It shows what’s possible when barriers are broken, and belief is restored.

If you want to learn more about are-able and how we can support your journey, please get in touch.