Creating meaningful employment opportunities for people with disabilities

25 Jul 2019

25 July 2019

In addition to providing long-term employment for relevant candidates the collaboration has enriched St John of God Subiaco Hospital's workforce and culture through diversity.

One person who is making a positive impact at the Hospital is 22 year old Anna Gray who has Down Syndrome.

After volunteering at the hospital for two years St John of God Subiaco Hospital worked with EDGE and Anna to identify a paid opportunity that would suit her needs and abilities.

HR Manager Alyce Bennetts said a role for Anna was originally created in our catering department.

“And although EDGE worked closely with Anna to provide on-the-job support and co-worker mentoring, it was decided that the role wasn’t the right fit,” Alyce said.

The decision was then made to create a new role just for Anna in the mailroom, where all correspondence sent to the Hospital’s caregivers, patients and onsite specialist practices is received.

Two mornings a week Anna collects mail and distributes it throughout the Hospital creating efficiencies for doctors and caregivers who no longer have to make time to collect it themselves.

“Anna is doing a terrific job in the role and is changing peoples’ perceptions about what a person with a disability can achieve," Alyce said.

"In fact, Anna has been formally recognised by our Patient Admissions Manager for the pride she takes in her work and her enthusiasm.

“Anna’s success is a great example of how people with a disability can make a valued contribution to the workplace if they are provided the right support and opportunities.”

Anna’s mum Elise Gray stated the enthusiasm and support Anna has been shown by everyone in the admissions and mailroom areas has been wonderful.

“Anna loves her role and genuinely enjoys getting up early in the morning, taking pride in her uniform and arriving to work on time,” Elise said.

“Anna also really enjoys interacting with all the people around the hospital and being part of a team.”

St John of God Subiaco Hospital CEO Prof Shirley Bowen said the hospital is pleased to be a leader in disability employment and a supporter of equal opportunity.

“As such, St John of God Subiaco Hospital has established a Disability Employment Committee to ensure that people with disabilities can develop their careers at our hospital in warm and accepting environment,” Prof Bowen said.