Part 2. Michelle Balances Work and Study.

Michelle was in the fortunate position of being able to work and study at the same time. This allowed her to bring her new skills into the workplace but also cement the knowledge from her study.

Individual Support Trainer and Assessor, Mel and Michelle.

Her new career pathway saw Michelle study for a Certificate III in Individual Support CHC33015 (Disability) with Enhance Training RTO 40387 while working as a Disability Support Worker with Hessel Group. She was able to select the shifts to work according to her study requirements while also factoring in her lifestyle and running a household.

"My advice to anyone considering a new career path or gaining new skills, if you have ever thought about doing a course is to just go for it. If not now, then when?"  Michelle Jolly.

As a Disability Support Worker with Hessel Group, Michelle supports participants to live independently in a fulfilling way. Generally working by herself with a high level of responsibility, Michelle uses her initiative all the time to problem solve, be creative and develops trusting relationships. Her work is carried out in participants' homes or in the community that could include transportation, shopping, community activities or accompanying them to appointments or events.

"Michelle is very reliable, has the ability to develop strong rapport with her clients, and is very compassionate to the needs of her clients and their health and well-being." Davor Delic - Support Coordinator and Behaviour Support Practitioner with Hessel Group (Michelle reports in to Davor).

"Michelle supports participants of varying ages and with disabilities that include Schizophrenia and vision impairment to achieve their goals and live independently."

"Michelle is an extremely valuable member of the Hessel Group team as she delivers a person centred approach to her clients and has strong awareness skills that is important to the health and well-being of vulnerable clients. This is reflected in her case noting after supporting her clients". Says Davor.

Before starting this new career path, Michelle worked in retail where she completed a Certificate IV in Retail Management. After speaking with a career advisor and looking at various industries and what they offer, Michelle settled on the disability sector, enrolled in the course and commenced working with Hessel Group and we're grateful that she hasn't looked back. Michelle is an asset to the industry and is now a qualified support worker.

Hessel Group's Intake Officer, Doinita, Michelle and Hessel Group's Recruitment Officer, Louise.

Look back at Part 1 - Michelle Decides To Pursue A Career In Disability Support.

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