"A lack of career prospects" - says the headline - is "driving disability support workers away". The article, in Pro Bono, was based on a report by superannuation fund HESTA. It found that while disability professionals are proud to work in the sector, many are likely to leave within the next two years. The State of the Sector 2021: Community and Disability Workforce Insights report highlighted that nearly a third of young people working in disability are at risk of leaving and quoted lack of development opportunities as the main reason.
Is the sentiment common across the sector? Is it true of workers at Hireup? Our numbers would suggest not. But then Hireup does do things differently.
We spoke to some support workers to find out how they're feeling, their career ambitions, and why they see Hireup and disability support work as a long term career.
Hireup support worker Warrick Hall values the meaningful relationships he's formed on the Hireup platform.
"I've really enjoyed being a mentor and role model in social support to the three guys that I'm working with currently," he says.
"I'm really enjoying what I'm doing and my clients see me supporting them for a long-time. Once a week, or every now and then, we would always keep something going. I love how Hireup makes that possible."
Similarly, Hireup support worker Emilie says that the training and development she receives from Hireup contributes to her work satisfaction, sense of support and safety. "The Hireup platform makes it easy for me to find meaningful and purposeful work, be trained and have adequate knowledge so I can support clients safely. And Hireup makes sure I get paid for the work that I do in a timely manner."
Hireup support worker Shaye Bradshaw has recently became a permanent, rather than casual, employee with Hireup. She says she's grateful for the security and support provided by Hireup's employment model.
"Hireup has supported me every single step of the way. Anytime I've had a problem with anything they've been there to back me up. The rapid response has been enormous. And Hireup ensures I get paid'' says Shaye.
"Becoming permanent part-time has given me security which I'm grateful for. It's changed absolutely everything. Being permanent-part time means I can get a car loan if needed."
As the legal employer of our support workers, Hireup is proud to care for and invest in our support workers. Through employment, training, great pay and ongoing support, Hireup is committed to delivering the best support possible for people with disability, and a long term career in the sector for our support workers.
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