Page 35 - Women in Rail

Making rail inclusive for people with disabilities – tips for organisations
About Ability Options
“Angus has proven himself to be someone really reliable and trustworthy. He listens and follows instru ions well. With Angus, nothing is ever too mu trouble, he is very dependable and, because of all those a ributes, the staff have
Ability Options/Olympus Solutions has provided employment support services for people with disabilities and employers for over 22 years.
A personalised support person will work with both the new staff member and the organisation to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Individuals have been placed with employers in almost every industry and jobs across the spectrum – from unskilled to semi-skilled and highly qualified roles requiring extensive experience and skills. Employing a person with a disability should not be difficult, but often misconceptions and other barriers can seem too hard to overcome. Gaining assistance from an organisation such as Ability Options can assist employers when actively working towards the creation of a diverse workforce.
This support may be intensive initially during the on- boarding stage, and on an as-needs basis as the new employee settles in.
Why do it?
This may include trial employment or other work readiness programs.
People with disabilities are some of the most reliable, dedicated and loyal staff an employer will ever have. For some people, the resilience of persevering in the job market against many barriers means that, when successful, they are absolutely committed to achieving their best.
come to really value him.
Depending on the person’s disability, making a workplace ‘work’ can often be as simple as a small but clever change to a process.
Ability Options employer – Owner of Leura Garage
Sometimes a reasonable workplace modification may assist in making staff as productive as any other team member.
Ability Options, and similar organisations, are funded by the Federal Government to support people with disabilities gain employment. There are a range of supports available including on-the-job supervision, workplace modifications and training/skills development. Look up your local Disability Employment Services (DES) provider to find an organisation in your local area.
Abilityoptions.org.au employment.gov.au/disability-employment-services
Organisations that are still feeling unsure can discuss upcoming roles and future business needs with Ability Options staff, or one of the other DES providers across the country. Staff can assist organisations to access suitable candidates and support their training pre- placement.
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