Jobfind’s ParentsNext program continues to help clients in need of assistance. The ParentsNext team at Jobfind have hands-on experience supporting these individuals and their families from many different backgrounds and situations. Support has included providing additional support to migrant families, families where children need additional support for disability or illness or individuals removing themselves from domestic violence.
Here we reflect on the journeys of two ParentsNext participants Farah* and Amelia* who have used the program successfully to move forward with their lives and better support their families.
Farah*
Farah entered ParentsNext after a period of time looking after her large family. Initially Farah found she was lacking any support and was not in position to establish healthy relationships. Together with her Jobfind Support Worker, Farah considered all the types of study she could undertake to improve her outcomes. She enrolled, and went onto complete, a Certificate III in Individual Support.
Mid-way throughout her time with ParentsNext, Farah reported feelings of isolation due to COVID lockdowns and a struggle with self-confidence. Her consultant referred her to Healthfind services (our internal team of allied health practitioners) for additional mental health support.
Following her study and with ParentsNext Support, Farah was able to finalise her work placement and then successfully gained employment as a support worker. This outcome would not have been possible without the Healthfind and ParentsNext Team working together to assist Farah gaining confidence in herself.
Throughout her time in ParentsNext, Farah was also provided with support to complete a First Aid course and Personal Development online course, Working with Children & Police Checks as well as suitable work clothing upon beginning her employment.
Farah exited the program when her youngest child turned six. She left ParentsNext with improved mental health, confidence, and financial stability to support her family.
Amelia*
Amelia was initially referred to Jobfind’s ParentsNext program after escaping domestic violence. When she commenced with Jobfind she was very unsure of her future. What she did want however was to ensure the stability of her family before returning to work or study.
Through the support of ParentsNext, Amelia’s support worker looked at all options available for her while also referring her to the beneficial Support Sessions delivered by Healthfind. These group sessions run once a month over six months and were developed as a joint-collaboration between Healthfind and ParentsNext to give participants useful parent-focussed guidance in a relaxed environment. The information in these sessions is delivered in an informative manner and educates participants about new resources and coping mechanisms for themselves and their family to help them achieve their goals.
Using some of the resources and strategies from this program Amelia has managed to secure employment for herself that helps her support her family.
*Names altered to protect client privacy
