A Fresh Start
October 28, 2019
Janine has a varied work history including employment as a Residential Care Attendant, Order Picker/General Warehouse Worker, and as an Auditor. In fact, she worked as an Auditor for 17 years before losing her employment in 2017 due to store closure. Following this job, she struggled to obtain other employment. In 2018, she was referred to WorkBC by a family member.
Janine accessed a number of WorkBC services. She participated in workshops, completed career and other assessments including a Neuropsychological, a Vocational Assessment, and a Physical Capacity Assessment as she was diagnosed with Spinal Bifida in her childhood, and suffers from weakness in her legs. This condition has increased in severity over the last year and she is living with pain in multiple areas of her body and can only stand for limited periods of time.
Even so, Janine has been keen to obtain part-time employment. She needs a position where she has the flexibility to move around. With the support of her Career Coach, she was referred for Customized Employment Services. Customized Employment Services are provided to those with disabilities or multiple barriers to employment. Staff assist clients to identify the job duties, workplace environment, work schedule and supports required and ensure a smooth transition to work by arranging for technical aids, adaptive equipment or other retention supports, if needed. In this service stream, Janine completed the Discovery process and participated in an Unpaid Work Experience.
Supported by her Customized Employment Specialist, Janine attended an interview with the General Manager at The Real Canadian Superstore. In consideration of Janine’s needs for disability accommodation, the Manager offered her a 15 hour a week position in the candy department.
Janine loves her job and is keen to learn all she needs to be successful in her new position. In Janine’s words: “I love the job! My manager and all the staff at the store are very supportive. I feel lucky.”
