Building a family sparks Megan’s career change to disability support

When Megan realised she wanted a fresh start, she turned to Bamara for help. Through taking a few important steps, everything started to fall into place.

After leaving school in Year 10, Megan worked in the supermarket industry for 16 years, experiencing a variety of roles. Having her second child sparked a desire to switch from customer service to a new passion in the disability industry.

Megan connected with Bamara for the ParentsNext program in January 2021, delivered in Kempsey. As an early school leaver, Megan was looking for support in retraining and balancing her commitments.

With study, work and family on her mind, Megan began working with Rachel, her Support Mentor at Kempsey. Together they talked through Megan’s goals and formed a strategy to actively work on achieving them. This helped Megan build the confidence to take active steps toward her future.

“Megan decided that she wanted to work with people with disabilities,” said Rachel.

“She had clear goals, was incredibly organised, and already had a well-established work ethic.”

With Bamara’s help, Megan was encouraged to make a start on her dreams, commencing a Certificate III in Individual Support. With assistance, it didn’t take long for Megan to get up to speed in her studies. She committed to the entire course and pushed through to the finish line.

To make the job searching process easier, Bamara ensured all her certificates were up to date. This included gaining her First Aid Course, Working with Children Check, National Police Check and NDIS Paid Check.

As part of her course, Megan took on work placement to gain practical experience in the industry. It was here that Megan proved herself to be a hard worker, which led to her being offered employment in a Disability Support Worker role.

As Megan settled in, Bamara supported her by arranging work shoes and connecting with her new employer to build the best environment for her. This has led to Megan experiencing a supportive workplace to grow and learn within.

“She must be excellent with her clients- she is approachable, enthusiastic, and always smiling,” said Rachel.

Wishing to keep in contact, Megan has chosen to continue with ParentsNext to support her future. She has been able to learn in her role and look after her family at the same time, supporting her own wellbeing in the process.

“Along the way, Bamara has been there when Megan needed assistance, or even a chat or laugh,” said Rachel.

“She was so appreciative of the program that she has continued.”

Megan has made incredible progress so far. Bamara is excited to continue working with her as she flourishes in her new career.